Reimagine your next chapter
As a reading volunteer, you’ll help a child discover the joy of stories and unlock their potential — while finding purpose in your own next chapter.
You can change a child’s story
Right now, more than one in four children in England leave primary school unable to read well. This puts their future at risk, affecting everything from their education to their mental health, employment prospects and even life expectancy.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
By giving just one hour a week as a Bookmark reading volunteer, you can help a child build the skills and confidence they need to thrive – opening doors to new worlds through the joy of reading.
Whether you’re newly retired, navigating a career break, or simply looking for meaningful ways to give back, this is your chance to make a lasting difference.
Support a child who’s struggling – and help both of you reimagine what’s possible. This National Volunteers Week (2−8 June) is the perfect time to begin your volunteer journey!
How does it work?
As a Bookmark volunteer, you’ll read stories and play games with a child for 30 minutes, twice a week, either online or in person. It’s simple, flexible and profoundly rewarding.
- Support a child’s learning journey and build their confidence and imagination.
- Make a real difference – volunteers say they feel deeply fulfilled seeing their young readers grow.
- No experience needed – we’ll provide full training and resources. All you need is your time and care.
- Flexible to fit your life – sessions are short and scheduled when it suits you.
A new chapter through volunteering
For Lisa, volunteering became a way to navigate grief and rediscover joy, after losing her husband two years ago. She said it’s ‘been a lifesaver for me and it gives me such validation’.
Midlife can be a time to reflect, reset, and reimagine what comes next. For Philippa, volunteering became a meaningful way to give back during her extended career break.
