Read Easy Derby & District is urgently seeking new volunteer coaching assistants to help thousands of adults in Derby learn to read. The charity has seen a major rise in demand for its free and confidential one-to-one reading service.
19,000 Adults Struggle with Reading in Derby
More than 19,000 adults in Derby—around 7% of the local adult population—cannot read well enough to handle everyday tasks such as paying bills, reading road signs, or applying for jobs. The charity provides free, private, one-to-one coaching sessions that help learners build their skills at a comfortable pace.
Volunteers Receive Full Training
Full training and resources are provided for volunteers, who only need to spare a few hours each month to help. Organisers are urging more people to step forward so they do not have to turn anyone away.
Success Story: Ted Midgely
Ted Midgely, from Derby, left school unable to read due to his dyslexia but turned to the charity at the age of 56. Two years later, he graduated from the programme and can now read his emails, texts, and work documents.
Ted Midgely said: "I’d held onto that magazine for decades, hoping one day I’d be able to read it properly. When I finally did, I was buzzing. It proved I could do something I’d spent my whole life thinking I couldn’t. Read Easy didn’t just teach me to read. It gave me confidence I never thought I’d have."
Charity Appeals for More Volunteers
Duncan Livsey, team leader, said: "Every week, we see how learning to read transforms confidence, independence and job prospects. Many of the people we work with had a poor experience in a school classroom or group setting, so our personal, confidential approach allows them to develop a supportive and trusting bond with their dedicated reading coach. But we can only change people’s lives if we have the volunteers to make it happen. Our reading coaches kindly give their time and expertise for free, while all our resources and training are funded by donations. We’re asking more local people to step forward so we can continue offering this vital support."
Duncan Livsey added: "Every new volunteer means another adult in our community gets the chance to change their life. The demand is there and the need is real. If you’re able to give a little time each week, you’ll make a big difference to someone’s life. We’d love to hear from you."
How to Get Involved
If you would like to help, you can email derbyleader@readeasy.org.uk, call 07852 259112, or visit www.readeasy.org.uk/groups/derby. Location: Derby in Derbyshire.
