A literacy group described as a “lifeline” to the South Dorset community is seeking volunteers to help adults with their reading.
The Read Easy South Dorset (RESD) charity offers free one-to-one tuition to anyone over the age of 18 so they can develop a skill that most people take from granted.
According to statistics gathered from Read Easy, there are 2.4 million adults in England who can barely read or cannot read at all.
Irene Carney, referral networker for RESD, shared how the stigma against illiteracy often prevents many people reaching out for help.
She said: “People are reluctant to come forward as they feel embarrassed or worried, they’re not going to be able to do it.
“There are many people who aren’t functionally literate so aren’t able to read food labels, or instructions on medicine. It is difficult to function in today’s society without being able to read.
“We want to reassure people that Read Easy can help them become functionally literate.”
The South Dorset branch covers the Dorchester, Weymouth and Portland area, holding sessions in venues such as libraries and church halls to offer somewhere private and comfortable.
People are paired with trained volunteer coaches who work with them individually to help them improve their reading skills. Sessions are normally held twice a week, thirty minutes at a time.
The organisation stresses that it offers a flexible phonics-based reading programme, where people can work at their own pace.
It usually takes two years to complete the coaching programme and upon completion, learners will be supported if they want to complete a professional nationally recognised qualification.
Irene Carney also said Read Easy South Dorset welcomes more volunteers to help them support a service which is described as a "lifeline" to the community.
She adds: “We are always on the lookout for volunteers. Anybody who can coach someone else using the scheme and they are given full training before they start.
“The main skill volunteers need is empathy. The people who come to us need empathy in their situation and there is a great sense of reward shared between the coaches and learners in helping someone gradually build their life skills."
People can learn about the volunteer roles by contacting the charity via sdleader@readeasy.org.uk
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