AUTHOR Dr Emily Andre is supporting BookTrust’s Christmas appeal, aiming to deliver 18,000 book parcels to disadvantaged children and those in care across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Donations to BookTrust will help fund its Christmas campaign, which provides 18,000 families with a surprise festive parcel featuring a carefully selected book, alongside its ongoing work.
The parcels will be delivered across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, thanks to book donations by BookTrust’s publishing partners. They will be distributed through local authorities, organisations, partnerships and community foodbanks.
NHS doctor, bestselling author and mum, Dr Emily Andre, said: “The magic of reading is a gift that keeps on giving, opening up new worlds of discovery, excitement and imagination.
“It’s something that every child deserves to feel, especially at Christmas. But BookTrust’s research shows not every child gets that chance.
“That’s why I’m honoured to support their campaign this year. Bringing surprise parcels to thousands of children who need them most, can have a big impact on their lives. Let’s make that happen for as many children as possible this Christmas.”
With BookTrust research showing more than half of children in the UK don’t get a bedtime story, the charity is warning that hundreds of thousands of children won’t experience the timeless magic of shared reading over the festive period.
Books can help overcome disadvantage and nurture a life-long love of reading, but for many it’s a luxury families can’t afford. Yet evidence shows that sharing stories together supports children’s emotional wellbeing, strengthens family bonds and builds the foundations for language, learning and imagination.
Annie Crombie, Co-CEO of BookTrust, said: “The magic of a good story never fades but less than half of children get to experience a bedtime story.
“That’s why we’re helping to share that magic with as many children as possible this Christmas. Your support can help bring the joy, comfort and connection of stories to children who may otherwise miss out.
“Your donation helps deliver life-changing support ensuring children have the very best start in life. By helping children and families to create joyful shared moments around reading, you’ll be helping to spark a life-long love of reading and all the benefits that brings.”
BookTrust research shows 95% of parents and carers know reading with their child is important. But not everyone has access to a book at home and only 40% of parents and carers say a bedtime story is part of their normal routine.
However, the benefits of shared reading are marked. Research shows early shared reading can increase social mobility, overcoming inequalities before they deepen. It also has huge developmental effects, including deepening bonds with parents and carers, improving mental wellbeing, and building empathy, creativity and imagination.
To find out more about the BookTrust Christmas appeal and how to donate, visit BookTrust’s website.
