One in six people struggles to read. However, research shows that when we inspire people to read for pleasure they benefit from far greater opportunities in everyday life, education and employment. Reading Ahead (formerly called the Six Book Challenge) is the gateway to these opportunities. Because everything changes when we read.

Reading Ahead supports young people and adults by changing their perception of reading, opening up opportunities and building their confidence.

Run through public libraries, adult learning organisations, colleges, workplaces and prisons, Reading Ahead invites participants to pick six reads and record, rate and review them in a diary in order to get a certificate. The programme isn't just about books - it's about newspapers, magazines and websites too. The new name reflects this to help those for whom books might be a barrier to joining in.

The main activity for Reading Ahead runs through to June each year when those who complete their reading diaries can enter a national prize draw to win some great prizes - a trip to London and e-readers for the runners-up - while organisations can win an author event. Anyone taking part can also use our website for participants to share their thoughts about what they read, enter competitions and find out more about the programme.

Reading Ahead facts

• Over 48,000 people took part in 2014-15, the last time it was called the Six Book Challenge.
• 92% of survey respondents in 2015 said they felt more confident about reading after taking part.
• The programme is designed to help people improve their reading skills and develop a love of reading.

Get involved

If you'd like to take part in Reading Ahead or run it in your organisation, get in touch to find out more.

You can order materials from our shop to run Reading Ahead in your organisation.

Visit our resources database for guidance and templates to run the programme and see our case studies for further ideas and evidence of impact.