This Christmas, the National Literacy Trust in Bradford is promising to match up to 3,000 donations to its book gifting campaign, to give children across the city the gift of reading.
The National Literacy Trust is calling for support from the Bradford public and businesses that work within the city, asking people to buy a brand-new book for a child and donate it to the scheme. The National Literacy Trust will match donations up to 3,000 books, thanks to support received from publishers throughout the year.
All books collected will be distributed by the team to children and families in Bradford, many of whom do not have a book of their own at home.
The latest research from the National Literacy Trust shows that fewer children own a book than at any time in the last five years, and that almost a million children in the UK don’t have any books of their own at home.
“Reading can take children to new places, help them discover valued hobbies and show them how to follow their dreams – but the continued cost-of-living crisis is making it hard for families to spend money on books this Christmas. We want to give this gift to children and families in Bradford because we know book ownership and access to books at home can influence a variety of life outcomes, from educational attainment to income in adulthood.”
Imran Hafeez, Manager for the National Literacy Trust in Bradford
Books can be for any age or ability, but should not be second-hand, and should be donated before 4 December 2023. The Trust is also asking that books be wrapped where possible, with information about the age range and genre on a label, to assist with choosing which child gets which book.
Donations from the public can be dropped off at or posted to the Bradford 2025 office.
"Christmas is about children and every child deserves a present; this appeal will provide books to those most in need. I’m hoping the people of our district will support this appeal, donate a book , so that the National Literacy Trust can continue its great work and make a difference to children's lives this Christmas."
Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director of Bradford 2025
For those unable to physically drop books off or who want to organise their own collection, alternative arrangements can be made by emailing bradford@literacytrust.org.uk.
The full address for drop-off is:
- BD25, Unit E2, Centenary Square, Bradford, BD1 1SD