The idea
Reading Bridge will create a community led literacy programme that provides age suitable (free and new) books to children aged 4-11 in state primary schools across the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. Working directly with schools from March 2026, we will deliver books for every child and organise reading events that encourage reading for pleasure and build strong literacy foundations.
This project is urgently needed. National research shows that significant numbers of children lack access to books at home. in 2024, fewer than 9 in 10 primary-aged children said they owned a book of their own - with the gap wider for children from lower incomes families. The UK has also declared 2026 the National Year of Reading underlining a national priority to strengthen reading habits and literacy.
In Hammersmith and Fulham there are about 35 primary schools serving roughly 8,500 pupils, many of whom wll benefit from improved access to books and community reading support.
What we'll deliver
- A free for every child in state primary schools
- 8500 books would be worth approx £80,000
- Age suitable, new book for every child to take home
- Encourage a love for reading and highlight its importance
Why it's a great idea
Hammersmith and Fulham needs this initiative because, despite strong overall educational outcomes, inequalities in access to books persist and early reading habits are critical to long term learning. Reading Bridge will be delivered in partnership with schools - liaising with head teachers and reading leads to understand needs and organise book provision - and working with volunteers, families and community groups to support reading activities that are inclusive, joyful and effective. Our aim is to provide a book to each of the 8,500 children a book of their own and get the borough reading!
As one teacher involved in a literacy programme observed, "It's not just about reading... whole child development, improved self esteem and confidence."
Steps to get it done
- Providing a new age suitable book to each of the approx 8500 children attending a state primary school in the borough
