Dorset Reading Partners: Volunteer to teach children to read
They are also celebrating their 15 year anniversary
Last updated 4th Apr 2021
Local charity, Dorset Reading Partners, is celebrating its fifteen-year anniversary by recruiting more volunteers to help children become confident readers.
The charity trains, equips and supports a large team of volunteer reading partners who provide regular one to one help to children in primary schools across the county.
Their services are needed more than ever as pupils settle back into school after a year of disrupted learning.
Charity manager Juliet Ruddick says next term they will be running a catch-up service for children impacted by the pandemic.
"It is so the children can get back into the habit of talking to an adult, talking about what they're reading and enjoying books again.
"Our reading partners don't just listen to children read; they make reading fun by offering choice, conversation and skilled support, and children flourish as a result of this approach.
"Our aim is to help children enjoy and succeed at reading, and it is always so satisfying to see a previously reluctant reader become more enthusiastic and confident as we progress."
Alongside the growing popularity of digital books, a resurgence of quality children's publishing and celebrity authors means there is a great selection of books for children to choose from.
Juliet says they all come in a box of books when a volunteer signs up to be part of the local charity.
"We really look after our volunteers, providing comprehensive training, DBS checks, top quality resources, ongoing support, and regular meetings and visits to ensure they have the best possible experience with us.
"Many of our brilliant team have been with us for years, but we are always looking for more people to join us, especially now as we prepare for the busy year ahead."
If you want to help children, love books and have two hours a week to spare then contact Juliet from Dorset Reading partners on 01305 458515
You can find out more about the charity here.