3,000 children have been given
free books and literacy-boosting activities at James Cook University Hospital
since 2015 as part of our Middlesbrough Reading Campaign, in partnership with the South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation
Trust.
Now thousands more children who
are admitted to or visiting the hospital have the opportunity to enjoy a
special story pack, which have been re-launched with a selection of new
books.
The packs are distributed to
children by the hospital’s therapeutic care volunteers and have been created
for four age groups: younger children, seven plus, 10 plus and 12 plus. Each
includes a story book, including stories from popular authors such as Jill
Murphy, Michael Morpurgo and Julia Donaldson, an activity book, a
Middlesbrough’s Best Books leaflet and a pack of pencils.
The project aims to inspire
families to read together during their stay and help boost children’s literacy
skills.
Allison Potter, Manager of the
National Literacy Trust Hub in Middlesbrough, said:
“We have been delighted with
the response to our story packs at James Cook University Hospital, which have
brought families comfort during what can be an anxious time. We are looking
forward to giving more children brilliant books to help them continue their
reading journey at home.
“Local partnerships are key to the success of the Middlesbrough Reading
Campaign - our important collaboration with South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation
Trust is helping us to reach thousands of children and families, inspiring
reading for enjoyment which will improve literacy levels.”
The Middlesbrough Reading
Campaign is also supporting parents of babies on the neonatal ward at James
Cook University Hospital. In partnership with the charity Bliss, parents of
premature babies also receive special packs to promote reading and singing to help
them bond with their newborn babies.
The neonatal story packs include
a copy of Guess How Much I Love You, tips on supporting babies’ literacy
development and information about libraries in Middlesbrough.
Find out more
about the Middlesbrough Reading Campaign.