In a bid to inspire a love of reading and counteract declining reading rates among the youth, more than 250 children from Swindon recently participated in engaging storytelling sessions. This initiative comes at a crucial time as research reveals that reading for enjoyment among eight to 18-year-olds in the UK is at its lowest level in nearly two decades.
The National Literacy Trust underscores the importance of reading for pleasure, stating that it not only builds a child’s confidence but also induces feelings of happiness and relaxation. However, only 42 per cent of children and young people in the South West admit to enjoying reading in their free time.
Orbital Shopping Park, in partnership with its owner British Land and the National Literacy Trust, organised these storytelling events as part of the award-winning Young Readers Programme. This initiative is tailored to encourage children to read outside academic settings, fostering a genuine love for literature.
Tom Mitchell, centre manager at Orbital, expressed his pride in the Young Readers Programme, stating, “It’s such a rewarding initiative, hearing how the children are inspired by the stories and activities and seeing just how excited they are to take their own book home.”
The event was a hit among children from Millbrook and Moredon primary schools and Hazelwood Academy. They enjoyed a performance from a professional poet, participated in a range of activities including a baking workshop, and interacted with emergency service workers. Each child was gifted a free book of their choice, marking the third batch of books donated this year through the programme.
Martin Galway, head of school programmes at the National Literacy Trust, emphasised the transformative power of reading, stating, “Sparking a love of reading can change a child’s life.”
This year marks the 13th anniversary of the partnership between British Land and the National Literacy Trust. Since its inception, it has supported more than 1,700 school children and has seen over 5,300 books donated across Swindon. The Young Readers Programme is especially designed to provide additional support and help with the development of children in underprivileged areas by giving them better access to books.
Image: British Land
