Volunteer Spotlight: the joy of reading online with Jan
Meet Jan
Since 2020, Jan from East Sussex has supported children across the country through our online reading programme ‑completing more than 470 sessions across 56 programmes, all from home.
But Jan’s journey to volunteering hasn’t been straightforward.
In her early 20s, a serious car accident left her with long-term mobility challenges. While years of rehabilitation helped her regain independence, the lasting impact meant she eventually had to step back from parts of her career as a physiotherapist.
Everyday activities, and even hobbies she once loved, became more difficult. “I needed something I could do from home,” Jan explains, “something that was both useful and enjoyable.”
That’s when she discovered Bookmark.
A flexible way to make a difference
Our online One-to-one Reading Programme offered exactly what Jan was looking for – an opportunity to support children without the physical demands of in-person volunteering.
“The beauty of volunteering online is that I can do something meaningful from home – it’s both useful and enjoyable.”
For Jan, the flexibility has been key. She’s able to volunteer around her part-time work and manage her health, while still making a tangible impact in children’s lives.
Starting during lockdown
Jan began volunteering during the COVID-19 lockdown, a time when many children needed extra support.
“It was especially meaningful to know I was supporting children of key workers at that time.”
What started as a way to help during a difficult period quickly became a long-term commitment.
Bringing reading to life
Jan described what her typical sessions look like, sharing that they usually start ‘with getting to know the child and understanding their reading level, then working through a book together, followed by games at the end. As you build a relationship, you revisit books and track their progress over time.”
Making an impact from home
Despite the physical distance, the impact Jan has been able to make is deeply personal.
From her home in East Sussex, she’s worked with children from cities and towns across England, broadening her own understanding of different cultures, experiences and perspectives.
She’s learnt ‘to engage even the most reluctant readers by thinking creatively – using pictures, movement and humour to spark interest… One session even involved supporting a child who didn’t speak English, showing just how adaptable the programme is.’
But above all, she’s described her role as a reading volunteer as giving a real appreciation for each child’s journey – from their challenges to their ambitions. ‘Even when progress isn’t immediate, that one-to-one time can make a meaningful difference.”
Moments that stay with you
Volunteering with a child is full of rewarding moments, Jan shared a memorable moment from her sessions so far: “one reader once told me she was a magician – then disappeared under her desk before popping back up to prove it! Moments like that really stay with you.”
Why online volunteering works
For Jan, and for many others, online volunteering removes barriers that might otherwise make volunteering difficult.
It offers:
- Flexibility to fit around work, health and daily life
- Accessibility for those with limited mobility
- Convenience of volunteering entirely from home
- Meaningful impact through one-to-one support
“The beauty of volunteering online is that I can do something meaningful from home – it’s both useful and enjoyable, especially for those with limited mobility.”
Inspired by Jan’s story?
If you’re looking for a flexible, rewarding way to give back, our online volunteering programme could be the perfect fit.
Make your story count
Become a reading volunteer with as little as an hour a week and change a child’s story – and your own.
