The KM Group's Get Kent Reading campaign had a fantastic early boost when Kent County Council jumped on board with a £6,000 cheque.

The money will help to fund vital work training volunteers to help children learn to read in schools across Kent and Medway where one in six primary school leavers are unable to read properly

Mike Whiting, the former cabinet member for education at Kent County Council, visited Lansdowne School in Sittingbourne and said he had been impressed to see the work of Beanstalk’s volunteers.

He said: “Ensuring all our children can read confidently, learn from books and enjoy them is something we can all help with. This initiative, here in Kent, is one that I fully endorse and support. I would ask everyone to get involved where, when and however they can.”

And at Kent branches of Specsavers, it didn’t take long before the big-hearted staff were planning everything from bake sales to bungee jumps to raise cash to help the charity’s work.

Ruth Warren, regional chairman for Specsavers, which has 17 branches in Kent, said: “Given the clear link between eye health and reading, our Kent stores are delighted to pledge their support for Beanstalk and the important work the charity does.

“Each store is involved in their own fundraising activities. It will be exciting to see how each event turns out.”

Get your business involved in Get Kent Reading by contacting Liz Bennett, Beanstalk’s corporate and major donor fundraising manager on 0207 749 7972, or email Liz.Bennett@beanstalkcharity.org.uk

For more details on Get Kent Reading, click the logo on our home page