Brand new literacy group seeks creative thinker and networkers
Seeking creative thinker and networkers
Hermione Granger of Harry Potter fame once said, “If in doubt, go to the library” and since childhood, libraries have been a creative and relaxing retreat for me. You’ll often find me browsing the shelves just for pleasure or perhaps because I need know how to wire a plug or want to try a new recipe. This led to me training as a English Teacher and then working in training for a number of years, finally settling in Oldham when I came to work as a Training and Volunteer Coordinator. It was in this role that I met Claire* – a mum of three, who was utterly exhausted at the end of the session. As she left, she stopped me and in a small voice asked “have you ever thought about how many times I’ve needed to read already today? I need a break. From texts to instructions, novels to timetables, for most of us, reading is something we take for granted. I suddenly understood with discomfort that I was definitely one of those people.
However, a Skills for Life survey in 2011 found that 5% of adults could only recognise a few words, and a further 2.1% struggled to read simple health and safety notices at work. I realised that there are many reasons why people might not learn to read at school, and many develop creative strategies to avoid reading or get friends and family members to help. Additionally, there can be a huge stigma around not being able to read as an adult, which can mean individuals feel too ashamed to return to the classroom, particularly if they have struggled while at school.
A difficult problem often needs a creative solution, and this came in the form of Read Easy UK, founded by former prison tutor Ginny Williams-Ellis. It was while working as a prison tutor in Dorset that Ginny noticed prisoners were more likely to come forward for help when there was confidential, one to one support on offer. As prisoners were released, she realised that there was very little support for adults out in the community, and as a solution to this problem she founded Read Easy in 2011. Within a year three groups had been established, providing an accessible and free service for adults who wanted to ‘try again’ in a safe environment.
Read Easy comes to Oldham
Read Easy has recently begun work in the North West of England and I was lucky enough to join the team as Regional Adviser, which involves me working with local people to establish groups that can provide support for learners. There is something extra special about a volunteer coach and a learner coming together. With a more relaxed pace and plenty of encouragement, learners are able to shed the stigma of having not learned before and apply their creative problem-solving skills to improve their reading. We are lucky in Oldham to have the enthusiastic support of the Life Long Learning and Library Development Teams, who are excited by the potential of a group to help residents meet their own goals.
Would you like to help?
In Oldham we are now looking for 2 local volunteer Pioneers to help get the group up and running. As the name suggests, pioneers help do the groundwork to establish the brand new group. This will include making links across the borough to recruit learners and spreading the word to engage other potential administrative, management and coaching volunteers. Fortunately, unlike during the gold rush, you will have plenty of support and help! As a local resident I am close at hand for catch ups, which I hope will involve coffee and cake in some of our fine local cafes! Joking and cake aside, pioneering is an ideal opportunity for anyone who would relish a project supporting literacy, with the active support of a local member of staff. Once in place, Read Easy Oldham will offer free accessible reading support for anyone who struggles to read. As a Pioneer, you will have the satisfaction of knowing you established a life changing service
Pioneering might be for you if:
- You are passionate about literacy and helping local people
- You enjoy a hands on challenge
- Can spare at least 4 hours per week (for up to a year)
- You like meeting people and networking
- Are organised and creative
In return Read Easy can offer:
- Lots of support & guidance from a local Regional Adviser
- Expenses & training opportunities
- An opportunity to use your skills and develop new ones
- The chance to make a real difference and have fun at the same time
- A warm welcome to our friendly team!
- Opportunities to socialise and work with a small group of like-minded people
If you would like to find out more about Pioneering, or other way to get involved with Read Easy Oldham, please contact Vicky on 07931138 350/ vicky@readeasy.org.uk.
She also welcomes recommendations for cafes to try, in her search for the best cake in Saddleworth.
*name changed for anonymity
Author: Jude Gidney - Editor
If you would like to share an interesting story, achievement, photo or something you just want to happily shout about please send it in an email to hello@saddleworthlife.com We'd ❤ to hear from you!!
