Read Easy UK launches local literacy classes for adults in West Berkshire

A free service teaching adults to read has been launched in West Berkshire, writes Fiona Paus.

The charity Read Easy UK will offer one-to-one coaching sessions to aspiring readers with sessions taking place in public places, such as libraries and cafes.

The programme was first used in prisons and focuses on learning sounds, followed by letters and then sounding out words, known as the phonics approach.

Jacky, a 60-year-old who couldn’t read or write before starting the programme, has already made great progress.

She said: “I am now able to make my own notes in my reading sessions, which I can refer back to, and I even wrote my own short story recently. Most importantly I am able to read with my granddaughter which I absolutely love.”

Last year, the charity rose to fame through a documentary which starred Repair Shop presenter, Jay Blades, and his journey to literacy as an adult.

Carla Priddon, CEO of Read Easy UK, said: “2022 was a fantastic year for Read Easy UK and we are so grateful to Jay for sharing his experience, which has raised much-needed awareness and reduced the stigma around not being able to read as an adult.

“Research shows that 2.4m adults in England can’t read at all, or can barely read. In 2023, we want to ensure even more adults receive the support they need to learn to read.”

To find out more information visit https://readeasy.org.uk or contact an area coordinator on swbnetworker@readeasy.org.uk

And Jay Blades has his own message for anyone who can’t read.

“The first thing I would say to you is, it’s never too late to learn," he said.