Reading Friends at Lavinia House in Horsham has been running each Friday since the start of the pilot phase in 2017, and we’ve had a great turnout. One of our most committed members is Susie, who has attends the sessions every Friday.

Breaking down barriers to reading

Susie has a love of limericks, poetry and all things reading. As someone with Down syndrome (a genetic condition that influences development throughout life) Susie struggles with her vision, so she has overcome this by using large print fonts. If large print is not available for some of the books we will take a section and make it accessible ourselves. This means that no matter what she can read to the group. Susie participates in each session with great enthusiasm. She also brings in books that she buys herself from the local charity shops.

The Reading Friends Film Premier Event at Lavinia House was also great fun for Susie, and she was able to share her contribution to the film with her mum. Susie was beyond excited, and her mum was extremely proud, as were we.

The impact of Reading Friends

Attending Reading Friends has helped Susie’s self-esteem and increased her confidence. It gives her the experience of being a valued member of the group, and we encourage Susie to show her that she can do whatever she puts her mind to.

Get involved

Find out more about Reading Friends in Horsham, and donate to bring Reading Friends to more people like Susie.