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UK in spotlight on International Literacy Day
8 Sep 2009
8 September 2009
Manifesto calls for political parties to prioritise literacy
Today (8 September), on UNESCO’s International Literacy Day, the National Literacy Trust launches its Manifesto for literacy to call on the political parties to prioritise literacy in their manifestos for the anticipated 2010 election.
Literacy needs to be a national priority: one in six people in the UK struggle with literacy. The latest international study of literacy levels showed that England ranks 15th in comparison to other countries, falling from 3rd previously. If the UK does not increase its basic skills base dramatically it will become uncompetitive in a global market – 95% of the population needs to be functionally literate by 2020 in order to bring the UK in line with other developed countries.
Developed in consultation with more than national organisations, the manifesto reveals that 69% of the British public say their vote in the next election would be influenced by policies on literacy, while 92% believe that literacy is vital to the economy.
The manifesto shows how poor literacy in the UK creates barriers to achievement and causes acute social, economic and cultural problems that are undermining and dividing communities. Without good reading, writing, speaking and listening skills, children are left behind at school and as adults may become locked out of the job market. It is this inequality of opportunity that sits at the heart of the manifesto.
Jonathan Douglas, National Literacy Trust Director said: “We are publishing the Manifesto for literacy to call on the political parties to prioritise literacy in their manifestos for the anticipated May 2010 election. The next administration will be faced with the enormous challenge of rebuilding the economy and improving opportunities for all, while making efficiency savings across Whitehall and local government. This won’t be easy, but it will be even harder without the basics in place. If we improve literacy levels, we can dramatically boost chances for individuals, communities and the nation.”
The Manifesto for literacy makes specific recommendations for government to develop literacy support for families, to modernise literacy teaching and to run a national campaign taking literacy to new audiences. The manifesto contains supporting comments from Professor Tanya Byron and Greg Dyke.
To read the manifesto or pledge your support for literacy visit:
www.literacytrust.org.uk/manifesto
ends.
For more information please contact Suzy Rigg, communications manager at the National Literacy Trust on 020 7820 6256 or email suzy.rigg@literacytrust.org.uk
Notes to editors
About the National Literacy Trust
The National Literacy Trust is an independent charity. We believe that society will only be fair when everyone has the literacy skills they need to communicate, to fulfil their potential and to contribute more to society. We campaign to improve public understanding of the vital importance of literacy, as well as delivering projects and working in partnership to reach those most in need of support.
The National Literacy Trust is a registered charity in England and Wales, no. 1116260, and a company limited by guarantee, no. 5836486, Registered office: 68 South Lambeth Road, London SW8 1RL
About International Literacy Day
For more information on International Literacy Day visit www.unesco.org
Research references:
DfES (2003) Skills for Life survey
Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) 2006
Leitch review of skills (2006), Prosperity for all in the global economy – world class skills.
You Gov (June 2009) Skills for Life survey
You Gov (June 2009) Skills for Life survey
