Every child deserves the joy of discovering their first favorite book — the one that makes them laugh, dream, and believe in magic. But for many families across the UK, books are a luxury they simply can’t afford. That’s where BookTrust comes in — and where we can all help.
BookTrust is more than just a charity — it’s a lifeline for children who might otherwise miss out on the chance to fall in love with reading. Through free book packs, reading resources, and support for families, BookTrust gives every child the opportunity to start life with stories.
In this post, I’ll show you how supporting BookTrust — whether through donations, spreading the word, or simply sharing your love of reading — can make a real difference in a child’s life.
What is neurodiversity? Neurodiversity describes the way every brain works differently. Neurodiversity can include autistic spectrum conditions, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, traumatic brain injuries and many more.
Representation through reading. We know that representation is vital in helping motivate children to read. Diversity and representation in stories, characters and illustrations in children’s literature affect how young readers see themselves and the world around them.
Diverse, inclusive and representative children’s literature can ensure that children benefit from a richness of perspective, nuance in narrative and good stories from the earliest age.
We know that representation is vital in helping motivate children to read. Diversity and representation in stories, characters and illustrations in children’s literature affect how young readers see themselves and the world around them.
Diverse, inclusive and representative children’s literature can ensure that children benefit from a richness of perspective, nuance in narrative and good stories from the earliest age.
From babies to children in their early years and all the way through to early teens, reading brings profound and wide-ranging benefits that can have a lifelong positive impact on children’s lives.
BookTrust is the UK’s largest children’s reading charity. We know that children who read are happier, healthier, more empathetic, and more creative. They also do better at school.
Working with every local authority and across every region in the country, and supported by Arts Council funding, we reach over 3 million families a year via partners in schools, children’s centers, health visitors and libraries. This incredible network helps us to get children reading across the country.
Travelling around I have come to realise that the people I thought where my friends really are not.
You see the whole reason I came to Australia is to spend some time with my friends and ever since getting here I am just a big inconvenience in their lives.
None of them wanted to spend time with me, none of them wanted to put me up after saying they would and in the end, I ended up at one of the parents' houses in the spare room no one came to visit me, no one got in touch unless I messaged first.
Not quite the start I was expecting.
Last year they all encouraged me to get a working holiday visa and said I could stay with them then when I got here it was a different tune, they were singing.
I am very upset about it all and a little pissed off to be honest.
Getting here was expensive and bloody hard work if I knew they would be like this I would have stayed in Thailand and visited another part of it but no I trusted them.
Now I'm sat in the middle of a park somewhere in the Gold Coast waiting to check into my hostel (which was an added cost along with the train to get here) I didn't account for that 400 AUD because I was supposed to be staying with them.
If I knew this was going to happen, I wouldn't have gotten my visa and just used the money for continuous travelling.
My feelings are valid
I am allowed to be angry I am assuming it will pass eventually but right now I am angry.
Updated: it did pass but it took a few months.
I have now officially left Australia my working holiday visa is up and I am now living in Cambodia.
Many assume that once you're abroad, it's a life of luxury and ease, but the reality is far more complex. It’s not just about the cost of a ticket home. Commitments pile up—work, finances, and the life you’re building away. The heart longs for home, but responsibilities keep you grounded. You can’t just leave; your life is now split between two worlds.
2. RESILIENCE ISN'T OPTIONAL—IT'S A NECESSITY.
Every day is a challenge, and sometimes exhaustion is overwhelming. But you learn to show up, to smile, to be the strong one for others. Vulnerability is often hidden behind the mask of perseverance because you don’t want loved ones to worry. "Keep going" isn’t advice—it's the only choice. You have to become your own motivator, even when motivation is nowhere to be found.
3. FIND YOUR PEOPLE BUT BE SELECTIVE.
Not everyone you meet is meant to stay in your life. It’s not about shutting people out but about knowing who truly understands your journey. Genuine connections are rare gems—when you find them, they become your family. Trust slowly and protect your peace. Sometimes, it’s the ones you least expect who stand by you when times get tough.
4. LONELINESS IS A COMPANION YOU LEARN TO EMBRACE.
There are nights when homesickness hits hard, and doubts keep you awake. You question your choices, wonder if you’re doing enough, and worry about those you left behind. It’s okay to feel that way; it’s part of the journey. You get stronger, not because it’s easy, but because you must. The quiet, lonely moments teach you who you really are.
5. SILENT PRAYERS ARE YOUR CONSTANT REFUGE.
Whether you consider yourself religious or not, there’s always that quiet moment of hope—praying that things will be okay, that sacrifices will be worth it, and that your loved ones are safe. It’s a whisper to the universe, a small comfort that keeps you going, day after day. Those silent moments of faith are what keep you steady when everything else feels uncertain.
6. YOU LEARN TO BE YOUR OWN BIGGEST SUPPORTER.
Sometimes, you're the only one who truly understands what you're going through. In a new country, far from everything familiar, you become your own cheerleader. You celebrate your small wins, push yourself to keep going when it feels impossible, and pick yourself up when you fall. You have to be your own encouragement because there won't always be someone there to remind you of your worth.
7. YOU DISCOVER STRENGTHS, YOU NEVER KNEW YOU HAD.
Living abroad is a crash course in resilience, adaptability, and self-discovery. You’ll be tested in ways you never imagined, facing moments that force you to grow. You’ll surprise yourself—finding strength in setbacks, creativity in challenges, and courage in the face of uncertainty. The experience shapes you, and when you look back, you realize you’ve become someone you never thought you could be: stronger, wiser, and braver than you ever imagined.
Plastic Bags Reusable bags/ bamboo/ Hemp Cling Film Beeswax Wraps Food plastic bags Reusable Silicone food bag Plastic Toothbrush Bamboo toothbrush Plastic scrubby /dish brush Bamboo dish brush Plastic Toothbrush Bamboo toothbrush Disposable Plastic razors Safety Razor Disposable pads and tampons Washable Pads and Menstrual Cups Disposable Cotton Rounds Reusable Cotton Pads Bottle shampoo and conditioner Shampoo and conditioner Bars Plastic Packaged Soap Package free soap Single use cosmetics Refillable Cosmetics Plastic water bottles Reusable metal water bottle Plastic cutlery Travel cutlery/ Take a set from your own kitchen. Disposable coffee cups Reusable coffee cups
Embracing zero waste swaps is a powerful way to make a positive impact on the environment and lead a more sustainable lifestyle. As individuals adopt these eco-friendly alternatives, they will not only reduce waste and conserve resources but also enjoy personal benefits such as cost savings and improved well-being. The journey towards a zero-waste lifestyle doesn’t have to be perfect or happen overnight; every small step counts and contributes to a greener, healthier planet. We encourage everyone to explore the world of zero waste swaps and join the growing movement of individuals committed to safeguarding our environment for future generations.
