Our impact

We believe in rehabilitation and know that for many, learning to read and understanding basic numeracy 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.

We have made real progress in tackling low literacy and low numeracy, inside and outside of prisons. Our dedicated staff team and volunteers continue to develop our organisation and that is showing through the significant increase in the number of mentors we train, and the learners they support. 

We are currently in the process of developing a new strategy in 2026 to ensure we can support those in need and make lasting change.

It is with the support of our volunteers, staff and partners, supporters, donors and grant funders, that we can continue to reach thousands of learners and mentors year on year.

Helping people learn to read and understand basic numeracy builds better communities.

According to the Winter 2025 Bromley Briefings, the annual total economic and social cost of reoffending is £18 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.