What we do

Largest independent reading and writing charity in the UK

Booktrust makes sure that everyone has access to books and the opportunities to enjoy and be confident in their reading and writing. Our work connects and helps to build strong families and communities through a shared enjoyment of reading. We provide resources and tools to support professionals in helping children and adults alike to learn and grow in their reading and writing journey. We promote quality recommendations and book lists and our prizes celebrate and promote great writing and emerging talent.

We place high value on research to measure the impact that reading and writing have on lives and communicate that to the widest possible audience. In this way we act as an instigator for change and ensure a future where the power of reading is accessible to everyone.

Our strategic goals include:

> To become a leading voice on books, reading and writing

We have the largest roster of high profile literary prizes in the UKWe believe that the power of books, reading and writing should be recognised and supported at the highest level. Booktrust is the largest independent reading and writing charity in the UK and runs public-facing campaigns to raise awareness of the power of books and reading reaching millions of people each year. We are a treasury and disseminator of knowledge and expertise around books, reading and writing and champion their importance both nationally and locally. Our work supports access to - and use of - school and public libraries. We advocate nationally and locally for a joined-up and strategic approach to reading and writing.

> To support everyone in developing their literacy, enhancing their ability to communicate and learn

We believe that literacy is the cornerstone of all learning and should be attainable by all, regardless of background. Booktrust offers a creative and fun approach to reading and writing by giving people the resources to create a positive environment to engage, communicate and learn. Booktrust's Bookstart model is the world's leading early literacy intervention programme, which has been rolled out in 27 other countries. Our suite of 'free books' reading programmes (Bookstart, Booktime, Booked Up and Letterbox Club) is the largest in the country, impacting on family literacy by inspiring all families to develop a reading culture in the home and by supporting parents and teachers in helping children to become confident readers.

> To act as an enabler for everyone, at any age, to get started with reading and writing

Our website features over 7,000 independent book reviewsWe believe that everyone has the right and the ability to engage with books, reading and writing and this should start at the very earliest age. By supporting the reading and writing development of people of all ages and backgrounds, Booktrust empowers people to change their own lives. Since its inception of our reading programmes in 1992 we have given out over 42 million books to 22 million children across the UK ensuring those most disadvantaged families have access to books. We also offer information and advice for adult readers who lack literacy skills or confidence, reluctant readers, people who are yet to discover books as well as more confident readers who seek new or different reading and writing experiences.

> To use reading and writing to promote health and wellbeing for individuals and communities

Biggest children's reading programmes in EnglandWe believe that an active engagement in reading and writing supports every aspect of an individual's personal and social development. Booktrust understands the importance of reaching vulnerable children, young people and adults who would benefit from extended opportunities to participate in reading and writing - on their own, within families and in social groups and communities.

> To promote creative writing and literature as a vital part of UK arts and culture

In the last 20 years we have given out over 42 million free books to 22 million children across the UKWe believe that literature has a vital role to play in the UK's vibrant arts and culture sector. Booktrust encourages creativity and supports diversity and engagement in reading, writing and culture. We have the largest roster of high profile literary prizes in the UK and run a range of literary promotions including the Children's Laureate. We understand the changing cultural landscape in the age of digital - and offer advice on how to find quality reading and writing experiences in a variety of formats.