Leighanna’s story
I remember the first time a parent told me they avoided reading their child’s school letter because they were embarrassed they couldn’t understand it. Or standing in a bookshop hearing a child tell their teacher ‘My mum can’t afford places like this’. Those moments stay with me. It’s why I’m proud to be part of Let’s Talk Reading, an Ipswich-based charity working to improve low literacy and make sure every home has access to books.
In Ipswich, 7.6% of adults find it difficult to read everyday essentials like food labels, medical instructions or travel information. Last year alone, 487 pupils across our town didn’t reach the expected level in their Reading SATs. I’ve read that around 1 in 10 homes doesn’t have any books at all, and fewer parents are reading with their young children these days, so it’s clear our work matters.
A typical week for me might include joining one of our baby groups run alongside Happy Babies. Or joining a nursery to share a story or two and some songs. Maybe delivering books to settings or attending community events. I love watching families sit together for stories and rhymes, joining in with repetitive phrases or well-known songs and engaging with books. Sometimes it’s the first time a parent has felt confident reading aloud. Those small, joyful moments can spark a lifelong habit.
Our work relies entirely on grants and funding. Last year, our 50+ volunteers gave over 1,200 hours to support story sessions, adult literacy coaching and outreach across the community. We gift books to nurseries, schools and families — including beautiful dual-language books so more children can see their home language reflected on the page. We also collaborate with schools, the University of Suffolk and other organisations to research barriers to literacy and provide training that helps people overcome them.
“When I see a child clutching a book they get to keep or hear that a parent has started reading every night, I’m reminded why we do this.”
Leighanna, Let’s Talk Reading charity, Ipswich
Funding for books, research or training might seem simple, but it could be the difference between a child passing their exams in the future — or facing the challenges that come with low literacy.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that reading changes more than grades. It gives confidence, opportunity and hope and that’s something worth going all in for.
Volunteers
Help someone discover the joy of reading
A little of your time can open up whole new worlds for someone else. Find out how you can support learners and be part of the National Year of Reading across 2026.
