Transform someone’s life.
Give them the chance to learn to read.

We support thousands of people every year to learn to read, but there are many more who need our help. By making a gift to Shannon Trust, you can help us make sure nobody is left out of learning.

Anwar's story*

Person staring out of a window

When I first came to jail at 26 years old, I didn’t know how to read and write.

It was hard not being able to read, everything in life involves reading. I wasn’t able to do things for myself like read menus or complete applications.

I learned about the Shannon Trust through a friend in prison who told me about the reading programme. I can do applications and read instructions now. I am now able to communicate with my family through letters. It’s made a big difference. I’ve now achieved a level 2 qualification in English and maths.

It wasn’t easy to start from the beginning and learn to read but I pushed myself to do the work. As I worked through the guides, it got easier. I knew I had to do this, to get better opportunities in life.

In prison, I worked in the printing workshop which I wouldn’t have been able to do before I could read, and I’m working in farms and gardens at the moment. In the future, I would like to work in schools and become a role model to children who can’t or don’t want to read.

I didn't think I could do it but I have. I'm proud of myself.

Make a donation today and help people learn to read, access education and training opportunities, build relationships with their families, and have more hope for the future.

Donate