More than 200 literacy packs have been given to families across Scunthorpe, helping to boost reading and writing skills at home.
The packs, which are full of fun resources, books and games, are designed to help children with their learning, and bring a wealth of benefits, encouraging families to spend more time together and building confidence, self-esteem and wellbeing.
The literacy packs have been given to pupils through Westcliffe Primary, Oasis Academy Parkwood and Althorpe & Keadby primary schools and are just one way children in North Lincolnshire are supported to achieve the best start in life.
Through the much-loved Imagination Library scheme, which is funded by North Lincolnshire Council, a phenomenal 740,000 free books have been delivered to the area’s 0-5-year-olds.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “On behalf of families, I’d like to thank the organisations involved for their generous donations, which have made the literacy pack project possible.
“This scheme, and other similar initiatives, including North Lincolnshire’s Imagination Library, which the council is proud to fund, are so important. Not only do they help to boost children’s learning at school, they help more families to discover the joy of reading for pleasure – a lifelong legacy.”
Community funding received from Ongo, Scunthorpe Rotary and the SSE Keadby Windfarm Local Fund was instrumental in the success of the project.
Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children and families, added: “The literacy packs have helped to share the joy of reading with more families across North Lincolnshire, while boosting children’s communication and language skills, which is fantastic.
“Through the SSE Local Fund, approximately £182,000 per year is available to bring community focused or charitable activities, like the brilliant literacy pack project, to life.
“The next application window closes on 28 January 2022, so if your organisation has an idea that would benefit local people, please get in touch and submit a bid.”
The literacy pack project has been organised by The North Lincolnshire Children’s Literacy Trust, with donations from North Lincolnshire Council, Scunthorpe Rotary Club, Ongo and local businesses Wrendale Designs and Hall Farm.
National organisations including Nettl, Penguin, Harper-Collins, CGP, Redan Publishing, National Geographic and Morrisons have also contributed.
George Jefferson, President of The Rotary Club of Scunthorpe, said: “We are delighted to have been involved in obtaining the funding for this very worthwhile project via generous grants from Ongo and The Rotary Foundation. Our members were also pleased to provide hands-on assistance to the North Lincolnshire Children’s Literacy Trust in gathering items for and building up the fun packs.”
Visit The North Lincolnshire Children’s Literacy Trust website for more information about their literacy projects.
If your child is aged five or under and you live in North Lincolnshire you can sign up to the Imagination Library via our website and receive a free book every month.
For criteria and guidance on submitting an application to the SSE Wind Farm Fund, visit the funding page on the council’s website.
(Note: The above photo complied with the Covid-19 guidelines in force at the time it was taken)
