The Big Give Christmas Challenge

The Wordsworth Trust seeks support to inspire

children through reading and poetry

The Wordsworth in Schools appeal is part of the annual Big Give initiative.

Reading and poetry may be everyday life at Wordsworth Grasmere & Dove Cottage in Cumbria, but for one in five children in primary school listening to or reading a poem may be something they have never experienced. This year, the Wordsworth Trust aims to change that by once again joining forces with The Big Give.

From 2^nd – 8^th December 2025, the Wordsworth Trust is seeking public support.

“For us, The Big Give is an opportunity for members of the public to help us support reading for children of all ages,” said Michael McGregor the Wordsworth Trust’s Director. “With the support of the public, we can play our part in encouraging children to discover the joys of reading and writing, both at Wordsworth Grasmere and in schools across Cumbria.”

The Wordsworth Trust is welcoming donations of any amount, which can be matched pound for pound during the campaign week. “Donations up to a total of £5,000 will be matched,” McGregor added “But however much we raise, all donations, will help us support learning for youngsters.”

All donations will go directly into introducing poetry to primary and secondary school children, helping them discover the joy of reading and writing through workshops, educational visits, and creative learning initiatives. The programmes will be led by published poets and writers, and the educational team from Wordsworth Grasmere, the former home and museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the work of poet William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy.

Donations to the Wordsworth Trust’s Big Give open at 12pm on Tuesday 2^nd December and can be made via The Big Give website. Donations must be made via the Big Give website to unlock the match funding.

The Big Give is a UK wide initiative and registered charity which connects the public, philanthropists and charitable organisations to deliver funding and promote good causes across the country.

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