Resort campaign is looking for digital literacy champs

The Get Blackpool Reading project are appealing for local people to help by becoming digital champions.

The community-driven initiative is led by the National Literacy Trust in partnership with Blackpool Council and the Blackpool Opportunity Area. Working with local partners, schools and businesses, it promotes reading for pleasure among children and families.

The project aims to tackle Blackpool’s literacy challenges by encouraging people to help each other through activities delivered via the campaign’s digital platforms.

A number of events have already taken place during the coronavirus lockdown and now organisers are trying to set up a a team of digital literacy champions, made up of over 18s, who will receive online training and resources to produce projects across the campaign’s digital platforms.

These could range from live storytelling sessions, poetry writing workshops or online reading challenges aimed at inspiring their peers to read, write, talk, and improve the literacy outcomes of local children and families.

Get Blackpool Reading project manager, Jillian Connolly, said: "We know that the people of Blackpool are dedicated, proud and will do anything to improve the lives of their town’s next generation, especially during these testing times.

"That’s why we’re calling on them to support their community and encourage people to share stories together.

Anyone can be a Literacy Champion - whether you’re a parent, business professional, teacher, student, sports coach or just passionate about making a difference in your local area. We want to hear from you."

The new Get Blackpool Reading Facebook page is filled with tips, competitions and challenges to support children and families across the resort as they navigate learning at home.

The National Literacy Trust has also developed its Family Zone and Zone In platforms - one-stop shop of tips and resources to support children up to age 18.

Anyone interested in becoming a Digital Literacy Champion or learning more about Get Blackpool Reading can visit getblackpoolreading.org.uk or email [email protected].