For Children's Bookfest, helping children by gifting books is a wonderful way to ensure they feel the joy of having books that belong to them. There is a well established link between childhood book ownership and a happy, healthy life. Yet, research by the National Literacy Trust shows that 1 in 15 children live in homes without any books at all. The charity aims to address this issue with their BookFests taking place in Chichester and Bognor Regis every year. They also provide books to local foodbanks and to many other local schools through their outreach initiatives.

During the BookFests, several popular authors lead inspiring sessions in state primary schools around the Chichester area. The authors interact with the children not only encouraging them to read but also inspiring them with ideas to write their own stories.

Grants awarded from the Foundation have, over the years, enabled these inspirational talks to take place. All the children participating in the festival met the authors and received a new book dedicated to them.

An author taking part in a recent Bookfest said:

"Many book festivals bring books to the places they are wanted. The wondrous thing about Bookfest is that it brings books to the places they are needed. Every child goes home with a book, so the positive effects of an author visit last far beyond the time we spend in school. It is one of the best, most well organised school visiting festivals in the UK. It changes many children’s lives forever."

Find out more about Children's Bookfest on their website.

Reaching Potential is our latest report in the Sussex Uncovered series. It highlights the challenges faced by our county and the vital role of local charities. They help those who are disadvantaged so they can reach their full potential. Read the report Reaching Potential.