Read easy - helping adults learn to read

Read Easy Derby & District is a charitable organisation recently set up to help adults living Derby City, Erewash, Amber Valley and South Derbyshire to learn to read.

Their team of dedicated and friendly Reading Coaches work with Readers to build their confidence and their ability to read independently. Starting in the Autumn, these sessions will be 1:1 at a time and place to suit both Reader and Coach, and completely free of charge.
 
As Sara Martin, Leader of Read Easy Derby & District, says, “When people can read they can register with a GP, understand food labels and prescriptions, find work and help their children with their schoolwork. The impact is huge and benefits the entire community.”
 
Who can learn? Adults who want to learn to read or who’d like to build their confidence with reading. It’s a flexible, confidential scheme, enabling Readers to learn quietly and comfortably at their own pace with their own Reading Coach.
 
What books will they use? Read Easy Coaches and their Readers use the phonics-based Turning Pages manuals* as their main resource. The programme also includes lots of reading books written for adults. * Published by Shannon Trust
 
Where do they meet? All our reading sessions take place in public yet discreet venues. There will always be other people around but Readers won’t be overlooked.
 
How long will it take? Reading sessions last half an hour and take place twice a week. Some people complete the course in as little as a year, while others take more than two years. The important thing is that everyone can learn at their own pace without feeling rushed.
 
“Since learning to read, I have gained the confidence to read in public and ask questions. In restaurants, I can make my own choices and not have to copy someone else’s.” Alison – Reader, Read Easy Winchester.
 
If you’ve been inspired to take action, here’s how you can get involved:
 
If you or someone you know would like help with their reading then please contact Marianne at derbycoordinator@readeasy.org.uk
 
If you’re a local business who’d like to support the charity to train 12 Reading Coaches then please contact: Jill at derbyfundraising@readeasy.org.uk
 
If you would like to offer them a venue then please contact Pauline at derbycoordinator2@readeasy.org.uk
 
Follow them on Social media for the latest news:
Facebook:  @ReadEasyDerby
Twitter:  @ReadEasyDerby
See their website for more information: readeasy.org.uk/groups/derby/
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