We believe in rehabilitation and know that for many, learning to read plays a key role. It has a transformative impact on the life of the individual and those around them, which in turn can lead to reduced reoffending and a better society.

Being unable to read is more common than you think, affecting 16% of adults in the general population. In prisons, over 50%of people struggle with reading. This means reduced access to education, training and rehabilitation programmes which could transform their lives, and give them hope for a better future outside of prison.

There are many reasons why someone might not have learnt to read, such as a difficult home life, low family literacy, dyslexia or struggling in school. Many non-readers learn techniques to cope, such as relying on family or friends to help, showing disinterest to avoid the subject – it can be a source of frustration or shame.

Research shows that people with poor reading skills are more likely to live in inadequate, overcrowded housing, and experience poor physical and mental health. They’re also more likely to be in unskilled jobs or even pursue alternative methods of generating income that can leave them vulnerable to abuse and lead them into crime.

Helping people learn to read builds better communities.

According to the Winter 2021 Bromley Briefings, the annual total economic and social cost of reoffending is £18.1 billion. This report states that engagement with education can significantly reduce reoffending, and that family contact can also help address the causes of reoffending on release.

Shannon Trust’s work addresses both of these key aspects of rehabilitation – providing learners with access to education opportunities, and facilitating better communication with their families through letters. It’s not just the learner that benefits from learning to read, it affects all of society.