A Defining Year for Literacy

A Defining Year for Literacy

While World Book Day may have passed, its message continues to resonate — especially in a year that promises to be transformative for literacy across the UK.

2026 has been officially dedicated as the UK’s National Year of Reading, a nationwide initiative to reignite a culture of reading among children, families and adults. It’s a moment that brings renewed urgency and opportunity — and one that aligns closely with the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation’s commitment to literacy as a driver of social mobility.

Why Literacy Matters

Literacy is more than the ability to read — it is a fundamental life skill that underpins education, employment, confidence and wellbeing. Research consistently shows a strong link between reading ability and social mobility. Children who develop reading skills early are more likely to succeed academically, while adults with lower literacy levels can face barriers to employment, financial independence and everyday tasks. Yet, across the UK, access to books and reading opportunities remains unequal. For many families, particularly those facing economic hardship, books in the home are not a given.

1 in 4 children leave primary school unable to read well. This equates to 1 in 4 future insurance leaders and customers.

This is where collective action can make a meaningful difference.

IICF’s 2026 Literacy Campaign

At IICF, we believe the insurance industry can be a powerful force for good. Building on the momentum of our 2025 milestone year, we are placing literacy at the heart of our community impact in 2026.

Our goal is to raise £30,000 to significantly expand the reach of our literacy programmes — supporting individuals at every stage of life, from early readers to adults improving essential skills.

Through partnerships and industry engagement, we aim to:

• Increase access to books for children who need them most
• Support community-led reading initiatives
• Encourage volunteering and skills-sharing across the sector
• Raise awareness of literacy as a key driver of opportunity

Working in Partnership: The Children’s Book Project

A key part of our work is supporting initiatives like The Children’s Book Project, which redistributes pre-loved children’s books to schools and communities.

With a network of over 450 donation points and more than 350 schools and community groups, the organisation ensures that books reach children who may not otherwise have access to them.

By giving books a second life, this work not only promotes sustainability but also helps foster a love of reading where it’s needed most.

How You Can Get Involved

As we look ahead to the National Year of Reading, we’re inviting individuals and organisations across the industry to play a part. There are simple, impactful ways to get involved:

• Donate Books: Pass on pre-loved children’s books in good condition to support families and schools across the UK.
• Volunteer Your Time: From sorting and distributing books to supporting book drives, there are flexible opportunities to make a hands-on difference.
• Donate £20: A small contribution can have a big impact. Every £20 can gift 5 books to a child or school library in an underserved community.

The National Year of Reading presents a unique opportunity to come together and create lasting change.

By supporting literacy, we are not only sharing stories — we are opening doors, building confidence, and helping individuals realise their potential.

Together, we can ensure that more people, regardless of background, have access to the skills and opportunities that reading makes possible.