A new 10-year reading partnership has been launched in Salford to improve literacy after it was revealed that two in five children lack essential skills.
Salford City Council will be partnering with the National Literacy Trust in the hope of encouraging a love for reading among local families.
The project will hope to improve future generations of Salfordians’ relationship with reading after it was found that only 41.7 per cent of children say they reading, a record low.
More than a third of children in Salford enter primary school lacking the essential literacy skills needed to thrive.
This blamed on economic disadvantage, with parts of Salford among the most deprived areas in the UK.
The project launched with fact-finding workshops at three local primary schools with celebrated author and illustrator Emily Coxhead and illustrator Curtis Jobling.
Children were introduced to Coxhead’s new book, Happy Days: 365 Facts to Brighten Every Day of the Year.
The event set out to show children the power of non–fiction reading to help uncover fun and
interesting facts.
Jonathan Douglas, CEO of the National Literacy Trust, said: “We are thrilled to be launching our 10-year campaign in Salford, a city committed to helping local children and young people reach their potential.
“Literacy skills are crucial, and now is the time to nurture a love of reading in the next generation.”
Through a variety of events, including book giveaways and author visits, the initiative aims to create a larger reading culture in Salford.
Events will take place at local schools, businesses, and community organisations, reaching families who may struggle to access literacy support.
Martha O’Brien, the National Literacy Trust’s Manager in Salford, echoed the urgency of this mission.
She said: “We believe that literacy changes everything. We’ll be collaborating with teachers, parents, and community leaders to empower children to rewrite their stories.”
Councilor Jim Cammell, lead member for children’s and young people’s services, added: “We are committed to ensuring Salford is a great place, where children have the best start in life, and can learn and develop the skills they need to thrive.
“Being able to read and write opens doors, boosts creativity, and enhances our enjoyment of life.”
To find out more about the National Literacy Trust in Salford, you can get involved or volunteer to work with the trust on its mission across Salford – for more information visit the website here.
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