Why Reading Is Power: Helping Women Stay Empowered and Safe
Jamie Oliver has launched a powerful campaign on Channel 4, calling for urgent action to tackle dyslexia and other reading difficulties early—starting in primary school. His message was clear: no child should be left behind, and no adult should have to struggle in silence.
Jamie Oliver in a classroom
But the reality is, many adults have slipped through the cracks. Jamie’s story is one of many. He—and countless others—have grown up without the support they needed to learn to read confidently. And the consequences go far beyond the classroom.
At My Sisters’ House, we know that reading isn’t just about books. It’s about:
Understanding your rights.
Reading a tenancy agreement.
Completing a job application.
Following a safety plan.
Reading a text message and knowing whether it’s manipulative.
Being able to say no—and knowing that you can.
For women, being unable to read can leave them vulnerable to control and coercion. When you can’t access information independently, you can’t make fully informed choices. That’s why reading is a key part of staying safe and reclaiming your power.
Be empowered - Reading a text message and knowing whether it’s manipulative.
It’s estimated that one in six British adults are ‘functionally illiterate’—a figure far higher than many people realise. That’s why organisations like Read Easy are so vital. Their nationwide network of trained volunteer coaches offers free, one-to-one support for adults who want to improve their reading. Sessions take place twice a week, last just 30 minutes, and are proven to make a life-changing difference.
Here in West Sussex, our local Read Easy Chichester & Arun group is active in Bognor Regis, Chichester, and Littlehampton. If you—or someone you know—might benefit from support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can also help by encouraging someone to come along to an informal meeting to find out more.
Everyone deserves the chance to read. Everyone deserves the chance to thrive.
Watch Jamie’s campaign on Channel 4: https://www.channel4.com/programmes/jamies-dyslexia-revolution
Learn more about Read Easy Chichester & Arun:
Either through the Read Easy’s main website or with one of their local coordinators:
BOGNOR - Chris 07436 140192 cacoordinator2@readeasy.org.uk
CHICHESTER - Lynn 07827 096205 cacoordinator@readeasy.org.uk
LITTLEHAMPTON - Jackie 07824 037295 cacoordinator6@readeasy.org.uk
