Write on!

A NEW campaign aimed at helping kids overcome writing, reading and numeracy problems was launched last week at Virgin Mary GNS in Ballymun.

One in 10 Irish children has serious difficulty with reading or writing, a figure that rises to as high as one in three in some disadvantaged schools.

The ABC One in Three campaign, launched in the local girls’ school to coincide with International Literacy Day, aims to encourage Ireland’s business community to help raise over €100,000 to tackle the problem. 

Suas Educational Development, the Irish charity behind the campaign, says the money will provide children in disadvantaged areas with life-changing skills.

“We’re supporting children most at risk of being failed by the Irish education system,” said Allison Aldred, Chief Executive of Suas.

“Our partnerships with schools achieve real results. The programme also gives businesses a meaningful way to foster relationships within their communities. By becoming Suas Literacy Mentors their staff are supporting children who need extra help.”

ABC One in Three was launched in Virgin Mary by Senator Lynn Ruane who said she was proud to be involved in the programme.

“Suas’s literacy programme has a proven record of success and I look forward to working with the charity to ensure it continues,” she added.

Existing programme partners come from a range of sectors across the country including A&L Goodbody who have been a major Suas partner since 2013. 

The Communications Workers’ Union has also been involved with Suas education programmes for a number of years.

To get involved, visit www.suas.ie