What is the Vision for Literacy Business Pledge?
Literacy drives social mobility, strengthens communities by helping to break cycles of poverty, and fuels economic growth by enabling the next generation to reach their potential. It’s important not just for individuals, but for the future of our country.
The award-winning Vision for Literacy Business Pledge provides a framework for businesses to play a leading role in the future of literacy.
Over the last 11 years, the Vision for Literacy Business Pledge has been pioneering in its role to galvanise the business community, with 116 of the UK’s leading businesses pledging to position literacy at the heart of their responsible business agenda. Thanks to the generous support of KPMG UK, the Pledge has been nominated for multiple accolades, winning two Business Charity Awards.
The National Year of Reading
Reading for pleasure is especially powerful – a stronger indicator of future success than family background – but it is at crisis point. Two in three children say they do not enjoy reading, and one in six children from disadvantaged backgrounds do not own a book.
The National Year of Reading is a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to change this. Delivered by the National Literacy Trust with the support of the Department for Education and charity partners, it aims to rebuild a national reading culture that lasts beyond 2026.
As the Vision for Literacy Business Pledge enters its 11th year, businesses have a vital role to play. Through collective action and 100,000 reading volunteers, we can drive social mobility, strengthen communities and help every child thrive through literacy.
How you can be part of the solution
By joining the Vision for Literacy Business Pledge, organisations can help shape a more inclusive future where every child develops the literacy skills they need to thrive.
To add your organisation's voice, please get in touch at partnerships@literacytrust.org.uk.
Vision for Literacy Business Pledge Awards 2026
The Vision for Literacy Business Pledge Awards 2026 recognise businesses demonstrating exceptional leadership, impact, and innovation through partnerships to support literacy across the UK.
How have some of our Pledge signatories changed children’s life stories over the past decade?
WHSmith
WHSmith and the National Literacy Trust have a long-established partnership spanning nearly two decades. The partnership covers many areas, including fundraising through WHSmith stores, book donations and campaign activity, and funding for our Young Readers Programme.
“They were fun because there were so many books. I’ve probably never seen that many!”
A pupil from Swindon after taking part in the Young Readers Programme
Lancôme
Lancôme and the National Literacy Trust came together in their shared passion for empowering young women with the confidence and literacy skills they need to thrive. The Words for Work: Women in Leadership programme has supported over 6,000 young women and non-binary students, introducing them to inspiring women and role models, and developing their communication and leadership abilities to fulfil their full potential.
“I thought the programme was very insightful and I actually realised that the literacy we do at school is as important as my teachers have said, for when I leave school and start my career!”
Feedback from one young student participant