Letterbox Club: Our impact in 2023
Published on: 13 November 2023
Our latest report shows the impact that Letterbox Club has had on children from vulnerable family backgrounds in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland in 2023.
Recipients of Letterbox Club packs
Letterbox Club is a vital part of BookTrust’s commitment to supporting children from vulnerable family backgrounds, because the benefits of reading can be life changing.
Children receive their own colourful parcel of books, maths games, and stationery once every month for six months, inspiring them with carefully curated books and resources to get them started on their reading journey. Reading regularly, and by choice can boost readiness for school and improve educational attainment, while also positively impacting mental health and wellbeing.
With coverage across 87% of local authority areas in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, last year Letterbox Club reached over 12,400 children aged 3-13 who are in care, previously in care or those with a social worker, or experiencing disadvantage or vulnerability.
At BookTrust we understand the value of listening. Between October 2022 and May 2023, we collated survey feedback from 376 children (aged 7-13) in care in England and Wales and also received postcards from 151 children sharing their experiences and reviews of Letterbox Club packs. We found that:
• 96% of children say they like or love Letterbox Club.
• 86% of children say they like or love the books in their parcels.
• 68% of children say they read more on their own since receiving Letterbox parcels.
The findings in the 2023 Impact Report show that children aren’t just receiving books and reading, they’re gaining confidence and expanding their interests through these books and materials.
In addition to the joy found in reading, discovering new things, and stretching their imaginations, these parcels encourage invaluable one-on-one time between children and their carers. Feedback also indicates this can support children's wellbeing and their relationships with their carers.
Topics: Letterbox Club, News
