Yeovil MP presses Government on reading support as enjoyment among children falls to lowest level in 20 years
Yeovil MP Adam Dance has pressed the Government to ensure schools and education providers in the South West benefit fully from the National Year of Reading, after new figures revealed a worrying decline in reading among young people.
Adam submitted a Parliamentary Written Question to the Department for Education asking what plans are in place to promote the National Year of Reading across early years settings, primary schools, secondary schools, further education and higher education in South West England.
The campaign, which runs throughout 2026, aims to tackle the long-term fall in reading enjoyment and encourage more people to read through events, resources and activities in schools, libraries and communities.
Data from the National Literacy Trust shows that reading enjoyment among children has now fallen to its lowest level in 20 years. In 2025, just 32.7% of children aged 8 to 18 said they enjoy reading in their free time, a drop of 36% since 2005.
Daily reading habits have also declined significantly. Fewer than 1 in 5 young people now read something every day in their free time, the lowest levels recorded since tracking began. The drop has been particularly steep among primary-aged children and boys, especially boys aged 11 to 16.
Adam Dance MP said:
“Reading opens doors to opportunity, imagination and learning, so these figures are concerning. When fewer children are reading for pleasure, it risks affecting confidence, education and life chances.
“That is why I asked the Government what steps they are taking to ensure the National Year of Reading reaches schools and education settings across the South West, including here in Somerset.”
In response, Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing Josh MacAlister MP confirmed that the Government will promote the campaign through the National Literacy Trust, English Hubs and public libraries, alongside national communications and events.
The Government has also announced £5 million for secondary schools to purchase books and over £10 million to ensure every primary school has a library by the end of this Parliament.
Adam also highlighted the importance of ensuring reading is accessible for all children, including those with neurodivergent conditions such as dyslexia.
“As someone with dyslexia myself, I know that reading does not look the same for everyone. Audiobooks, assistive technology and accessible formats can make a huge difference in helping children develop a love of stories and learning.
“That is why initiatives like the National Year of Reading are so important. They should celebrate all the different ways young people engage with reading.”
Adam added that local libraries, schools and community groups across Somerset will play an important role in helping inspire more children and young people to read.
“Encouraging reading from an early age can have lifelong benefits. I hope this campaign helps more young people discover the joy of reading in whatever format works best for them.”
Residents can find more information about the National Year of Reading and events happening across the UK at: https://goallin.org.uk