Access

Universal
Booktrust has unique expertise in bookgifting in the UK that is widely recognised, giving free books and guidance materials directly into the homes of babies, toddlers and young children up to the age of three (Bookstart), after they start primary school (Booktime) and offering a choice of one free book at the age of eleven after the move to secondary school (Booked Up).

Targeted
All Booktrust bookgifting programmes include targeted support for children who are less likely to have access to the free books offers because of language, literacy skills, culture, disability, or other factors.

> We offer dual-language books in our bookgifting packs.

> The Letterbox Club focuses on improving the educational outlook for children aged 7-11 in foster families by providing them with a parcel of books, maths activities and educational materials every month for six months.

> We provide a tailored selection of bookgifts for children aged 0-5 who are deaf or who have visual impairment, and have run a pilot scheme for a maternity pack for vulnerable mothers.

> We are developing ways in which we can support the most socially-excluded children and families, working with hospitals, children’s hospices, Pupil Referral Units, Traveller groups and home-educated children.

Promotion

Our promotions and awards inspire new writers and readers, open up new genres, foster an enjoyment of reading in the home, encourage children and families  to discover a love of books, and young people to develop their creativity in reading and writing.

Our prizes and campaigns among the wider public celebrate excellent literary work. Responding to a changing world we embrace new technologies to extend creativity and confidence, and through our programmes and websites, build new audiences.

We:

> promote and manage the Children’s Laureate programme to celebrate outstanding achievement in creative writing and focus public attention on children’s books

> work with every local authority to promote library membership and active use through Rhymetimes, storytimes and book groups in libraries and community venues

> support around 3,000 booksellers by providing point-of-sale materials, promoting National Bookstart Day and our ‘Book in Every Stocking’ campaign in order to raise awareness of Booktrust and help to promote strong family values around book ownership and reading for pleasure

> raise awareness of the role of books and reading for enjoyment in adult learning through the Booktrust Power of Reading Award and related activities, and help to promote lifetime enjoyment of books for all

> promote with specialist agencies an interest in poetry in all forms, encouraging wider participation in and celebration of poems and rhyme

> promote awareness of illustrations and pictures in children’s books, and the role of illustrators in creating a compelling book, through the Big Picture campaign and the 10 Best New Illustrators.

Partnership working

Develop and support partnerships to maximise benefits to the public, ensure cost-effectiveness and support individuals and communities to benefit from and enjoy books and creative writing.

Policy and influence

Advocate for national and local policies to recognise the importance of books, reading and the written word for people of all ages.