Books Out Loud

Be part of Books Out Loud

Do you work with young people and are passionate about supporting their wellbeing and life chances?

Our research reveals that when children and young people enjoy reading and read daily in their free time, their reading skills, aptitude for learning, wellbeing, empathy and confidence benefit.

However, too many young people are missing out on these benefits as the number of children in the UK reading for enjoyment is at an all-time low.

Amid a reading for pleasure crisis, we are launching a project inviting volunteers to inspire the young people they work with to fall in love with books by reading aloud to them.

Books Out Loud taps into the powerful influence that role models can have on reading, encouraging volunteers to provide a gateway to books through listening for the young people they work with.

Group of children doing fitness activity outdoors

Who can take part?

Are you a sports coach, Scouts leader or youth club volunteer? Maybe you work with little ones, kids, or teenagers?

We are looking for people who already work with and inspire children and young people (of any age), to take part in Books Out Loud.

You don't need to be an expert in books or storytelling to take part - your understanding of and empathy to the young people you work with is more important.

What will happen?

Those who sign up to take part in Books Out Loud will be invited to a virtual event which will support all volunteers to read confidently and effectively to the children and young people they work with.

You will then arrange moments within your activity with young people, to read aloud to them. Readers will aim to run at least five regular moments and see where it takes you!

Volunteers will also receive a Books Out Loud Volunteer Guide to support and guide their work.