‘Help make a difference’: Reading charity seeking volunteers

By Kelsey McCabe

During this year’s Volunteers’ Week, which runs from June 3 to June 9, a children’s reading charity is seeking volunteers to pair with children across six primary schools in Wandsworth.

Coram Beanstalk volunteers provide one-on-one support to children ages three to 11 who are in need of extra help with their reading skills.

“Reading is such a fundamental life skill for children to develop,” said Amy Lewis, head of Coram Beanstalk. 

“Evidence shows that when children not only can read but choose to read, they not only achieve more academically across the whole curriculum, but they also benefit from improved wellbeing and go on to experience greater success in life. 

“This is where Coram Beanstalk reading helpers can really make a difference.”

Reading helpers are paired, on average, with three children that they work with for twenty to thirty minutes each, at least once per week.

Jill Pay, chairwoman of Coram Beanstalk, said: “There is a magical relationship with the child.

“It’s like no other. You go into a bubble with them and everything else just disappears for the time you are with them.”

For new volunteers, Coram Beanstalk’s recruitment process takes about one month, including training, a Disclosure and Barring Service check, and being paired with a student.

Ms Lewis said: “We see a future where every child is a reader and gets the very best chance in life – but we can only achieve that with your help.

“It really is such a fulfilling and meaningful volunteering role which transforms lives, so please get in touch today to find out more about joining us.”

Prospective volunteers can apply at www.corambeanstalk.org.uk.

Pictured top: A Coram Beanstalk reading helper with a student at Dovedale Primary School (Picture: Coram Beanstalk)