The education secretary is calling on parents to read more.

Bridget Phillipson MP wants parents to lead by example and make reading a daily habit, picking up a book rather than scrolling on their phones.

The number of children who enjoy reading for pleasure is at a 20-year low, and the government is seeking ways to change that. In a National Literacy Trust survey, just one in three young people between eight and 18 said they enjoyed reading in their spare time.

The benefits of reading for pleasure include stronger writing skills plus improved wellbeing and confidence.

The government is teaming up with the National Literacy Trust to launch a National Year of Reading, starting from January 2026, which will bring together parents, schools and other organisations in a bid to encourage more reading.

The year will see events take place in schools and local communities, as well as a host of activities.

It’s part of the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to give children the best start in life.

“Reading holds the keys to so much of children’s education, so the decline in reading for pleasure among young people should sound alarm bells,” Ms Phillipson said. “This can’t be just a government mission, it needs to be a national one. So, it’s time for all of us to play our part, put our phones down and pick up a book.”

This summer the National Literacy Trust is giving out more than 72,000 books to children in the most deprived areas to encourage reading for pleasure.