Give the gift of reading to children in Peterborough this Christmas

This Christmas, the National Literacy Trust in Peterborough is promising to match up to 1,000 donations to its annual book gifting scheme, to give children across the city the gift of reading.

The National Literacy Trust is calling for support from the Peterborough public and businesses that work within the city, asking people to buy a brand-new book for a child and donate it to the scheme. The National Literacy Trust will match donations up to 1,000 books, thanks to support received from publishers throughout the year.

All books collected will be shared via local foodbanks, where families who use the foodbank service will be able to pick and wrap one to take home and give to their child for Christmas.

Books can be for any age or ability, but should not be second-hand, and should be donated before 7 December 2023.

Donations from the public can be dropped off at The Cresset, Metro Bank or Serpentine Green. Businesses interested in taking part are asked to contact the National Literacy Trust to arrange drop-off.

This is the fourth year of the city-wide book gifting scheme, run by National Literacy Trust’s Peterborough-based campaign. It was started to promote book ownership in the city. 

Becky Marrs, Manager for the National Literacy Trust in Peterborough, said: “Reading can take children to new worlds, help them discover cherished hobbies and show them how to follow their dreams.

“We want to give this gift to children in Peterborough who need it most, because we know book ownership and access to books at home can influence a variety of life outcomes, from educational attainment to income in adulthood.”

Peterborough City Council has pledged its support for the campaign by encouraging its staff to get involved and buy a new book for a child and by helping to raise awareness of the scheme.

Matt Gladstone, Chief Executive of Peterborough City Council, said: “Reading will always be one of the most important skills you learn in life and I still have memories of sharing favourite books with my family as a child.

“The current cost of living crisis will make it hard for families this year but by buying a book, maybe even one of your own childhood favourites, your gift could be the reason a child smiles this Christmas and could help to inspire a new generation of young readers.”

Contact becky.marrs@literacytrust.org,uk if your business is interested in supporting the scheme. Visit literacytrust.org/peterborough to find out more.

Full addresses for drop-off are: