World Literacy Foundation to host family reading event in Liverpool

Children from across Liverpool will have the chance to meet bestselling authors and dive into the magic of books, as part of a free literacy workshop supported by the World Literacy Foundation. 

Taking place on Saturday 25th October at The Halyard Hotel Liverpool, Family Story Time is centred on encouraging children’s interest in reading for pleasure – a culture that has been in decline for decades in Liverpool. 

The lineup features exciting Key Stage 1 workshops led by Laura Henry-Allain, author of Maya and Marley and the Great Big Tidy-Up and creator of the beloved CBBC series JoJo and Gran Gran, alongside bestselling author NGK, whose heartwarming children’s book Harry the Happy Mouse has captured the imaginations of young readers across the UK.  

For Key Stage 2 bookworms, Liverpool-based authors Natalie Denny, writer of the popular Keisha Jones series, and Jude Lennon, whose charming stories The Dragon of Allerton Oak and Lamby and the Liver Bird are deeply rooted in Liverpool’s unique culture and landmarks, will lead engaging workshops designed to inspire and delight young minds. 

UK Reads, part of the World Literacy Foundation (WLF), is leading the initiative in response to growing concerns about children’s literacy engagement across the UK. 

A series of reports have revealed that only 19% of children aged 8 to 19 read daily in the UK, while just 33% say they enjoy reading “very much.” The most recent figures show the numbers are even lower in Liverpool. 

According to local education data, only 55% of primary school pupils in the city met the expected standard of the three R’s (Reading, wRiting, aRithmetic), compared to the national average of 59%, and the 62% benchmark before 2020. 

The event will focus on Key Stage 1 and 2 pupils, bringing together 80 families to bond over books and shared stories. Families who register will be able to take part in interactive workshops and storytelling sessions, along with support activities for both parents and children.

Naomi Nwagboso, Project and Fundraising Manager at UK Reads and the lead organiser of the event, said:

“At UK Reads, we believe reading for pleasure is a vital pathway to unlocking a child’s potential,”

“It’s not just about handing out books – it’s about inspiring a culture of reading at home. Events like this help families discover the joy of shared reading and bring stories to life in creative, meaningful ways.” 

Furthermore, the event will be hosted by Amber Ogunsanya-Williams, a pioneering inclusive play consultant, passionate advocate for play-based learning, and Community and Delivery Lead for UK Reads. 

WLF believes these activities will help motivate families to rekindle reading habits at home and build a stronger connection between children and books. 

With 80 families expected to participate in the free event at The Halyard Hotel – Vignette Collection, each child will also receive two free books to take home and enjoy.  

Vignette Collection, part of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), a global hospitality brand, is providing the venue and refreshments for the event. This initiative is part of Vignette Collection’s partnership with the World Literacy Foundation, launched in March this year, and supports WLF’s mission to improve literacy for disadvantaged children around the world. 

“Our aim is to support those in the communities of our hotels to access vital education, broaden their horizons, and reach their full potential,” said Tom Rowntree, IHG’s Vice President, Luxury & Lifestyle Brands. 

Takis Melitsiotis, General Manager at The Halyard, said:

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming the World Literacy Foundation to The Halyard for what is an incredibly important cause. We can’t wait to meet local families and to be able to offer them the chance to work with such talented authors at The Halyard is fantastic.” 

Spaces are limited and booking is advised.

To register for the free Family Story Time event, click here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here. 

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.