Ginny Lunn, Beanstalk CEO and a trained reading helper. 

With the New Year just around the corner, and our waistbands slightly bulging after Christmas, many of us are starting to think about how we can make 2017 our best year yet. 

According to a recent study, over half (53%) of Brits plan to start 2017 with a positive step by making at least one resolution this year. However, shockingly, 81% of these will be broken. So, despite our best intentions, it’s evident that to stick to our New Year resolutions we need to find a way to beat the odds!

So what’s the key to making our good intentions last longer than the Christmas chocolates? Research shows that when we can see the positive difference our resolution is making, or when we enjoy it, we are far more likely to stick to it. That’s why volunteering as a Beanstalk reading helper is the perfect way to stick to your New Year resolution and make a difference in 2017, as it’s all about having fun and making a difference!

Every year people contact Beanstalk as a result of a New Year’s resolution to do something positive, to learn new skills, meet new people or take up a new challenge. With our training and support, they become volunteer reading helpers in their local primary school, working with children who are struggling with their reading. These volunteers really do make a difference by building pupils’ confidence and helping them reach their full potential. And they always say how much they enjoy what they do, and how rewarding it is to see the impact they have on the children they read with.

But we need more of these inspiring people to use their New Year’s resolutions to make this difference. Last year alone over 200,000 children left primary school unable to read to the expected level. So if you’re considering a new challenge for the year ahead, make it something meaningful and become a Beanstalk reading helper.

If you’d like to make a difference with your New Year’s resolution then find out how or call 020 7729 4087.