Navendu Mishra MP attends event in Parliament to raise awareness about adult literacy

Navendu Mishra MP supports campaign to improve adult literacy rates.

Navendu Mishra MP recently attended an event in Parliament to highlight the importance of improving levels of adult literacy.  The MP for Stockport joined forces with well-known media personality Julian Fellowes, the Oscar-winning creator of Gosford Park and Downtown Abbey, who is a long-time supporter of the cause of improving adult literacy rates.

The event was hosted by the Wirral West MP Margaret Greenwood and was attended by representatives from organsiations including the Adult Literacy Trust, the Workers’ Educational Association, the Learning and Work Institute and the Reading Agency.

It is estimated that more than seven million adults in England – about one in six of the adult population – have very poor literacy skills. This means that although they might be able to understand short, straightforward texts on familiar topics, reading information from unfamiliar sources, or on unfamiliar topics, can cause real difficulty.

Campaigners argue that urgent action is needed to improve adult literacy rates to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their potential and to address the economic challenges our country faces. 

An Early Day Motion (EDM) has been tabled by Margaret Greenwood MP in Parliament to this effect, and it can be viewed here: https://edm.parliament.uk/early-day-motion/61668  

Speaking after the event, Navendu Mishra MP said:

“I was pleased to be able to attend this event in Parliament to highlight the importance of improving levels of adult literacy.

“It is a matter of real concern that as many as one in six adults in England have very poor literacy skills.

“People who struggle to read and write experience disadvantage on a daily basis.

“These people can experience difficulty in accessing vital services including housing, social security, education, health and care services, or even in simply staying in touch with friends and family. 

“Poor reading and writing skills can also make it much harder for people to secure well-paid employment.

“Literacy is invaluable in enabling people to communicate with each other and engage with the world around them.

“It is vital that adults who struggle with reading and writing get the support that they need."