An independent charity is calling on local businesses to support its mission to improve literacy in Stoke-on-Trent.
The National Literacy Trust in Stoke-on-Trent is looking for businesses to help fund its flagship Tales in the Park storytelling programme and provide more children with access to books and reading opportunities.
Now in its fourth year, the initiative encourages families to read together, inspires children to develop a love of books and promotes literacy in communities facing significant challenges. The charity works closely with local schools, libraries and volunteers to ensure that children, young people and adults have access to vital reading support.
The Tales in the Park events, run in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent Libraries and YMCA North Staffordshire, provide a free, fun-filled day of storytelling and activities, helping to make reading accessible to all families, regardless of their circumstances. Last year, more than 6,000 people attended, with every child receiving a free book to take home.
Sponsorship packages range from £600 – which would provide 100 children with a brand new book – to £6,000, which would sponsor an entire event and secure headline supporter status.
Businesses that support Tales in the Park will receive recognition through promotional materials and social media, as well as the chance to volunteer during the events to help embed a culture of reading in Stoke-on-Trent.
Research from the National Literacy Trust has revealed the extent of literacy challenges in the region. Only two in five children in the West Midlands enjoy reading in their free time, and just one in four read daily.
The impact of low literacy levels is significant, with 29 per cent of 11-year-olds in Stoke-on-Trent leaving primary school without the reading skills they need to thrive.
A spokesperson for the National Literacy Trust in Stoke-on-Trent said: “We are looking for inspiring local businesses to support our flagship Tales in the Park community storytelling events this summer.
“Your support will help inspire families to enjoy stories together and develop a love of reading that every child deserves. You will help to provide a free fun day of family activities, which also supports health and wellbeing by encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.
“And finally, for many children you could be giving them an opportunity to walk away with their first ever book of their own.”
For more information visit the website or email stoke@literacytrust.org.uk
