The Reader Organisation
We aim to bring about a Reading Revolution making it possible for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to enjoy and engage with books on a deep and personal level. We aim to improve well-being and build communities through shared reading. Our work is driven by the heartfelt belief that literacy is not just the ability to read, but the state of being a reader.
Activities & Mission
We aim to bring about a Reading Revolution making it possible for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to enjoy and engage with books on a deep and personal level. We aim to improve well-being and build communities through shared reading. Our work is driven by the heartfelt belief that literacy is not just the ability to read, but the state of being a reader.
Areas of Operation
Where this charity is registered to operate, as self-declared to the Charity Commission. These are regulatory classifications, not a list of active programmes, and don't necessarily indicate fundraising activity in each location.
Country
Region
Financial Information
Financial Efficiency
Higher than 18% of UK Arts charities with income £1M to £10M (sample: 780). How is this calculated?
Higher than 8% of UK Arts charities with income £1M to £10M. How is this calculated?
Lower overhead than 6% of UK Arts charities with income £1M to £10M. (Lower overhead is generally read as more efficient.) How is this calculated?
Latest Financial Breakdown
Income Sources
Expenditure Categories
Financial Trend
Annual Returns
As filed with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Most recent filing covers the financial year ending 2025.
| Financial Year | Income | Expenditure | Charitable Spending | Net Assets | Reserves | Staff |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | £4,586,647 | £4,883,069 | £3,085,508 | £4,935,028 | £306,226 | 175 / 639 |
| 2024 | £4,354,896 | £4,982,133 | £3,231,570 | £5,231,451 | £355,006 | 181 / 625 |
| 2023 | £4,241,373 | £4,912,149 | £3,472,772 | £5,858,940 | £739,780 | 175 / 700 |
| 2022 | £4,064,045 | £4,197,492 | £3,202,374 | £6,529,718 | £842,719 | 151 / 772 |
| 2021 | £3,646,527 | £3,466,633 | £2,883,944 | £6,663,165 | £764,297 | 134 / 761 |
Staff column shows: Employees / Volunteers
Frequently asked questions about The Reader Organisation
What does The Reader Organisation do?
We aim to bring about a Reading Revolution making it possible for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to enjoy and engage with books on a deep and personal level. We aim to improve well-being and build communities through shared reading. Our work is driven by the heartfelt belief that literacy is not just the ability to read, but the state of being a reader.
How much income did The Reader Organisation report in 2025?
The Reader Organisation reported total income of £4.59m and reported expenditure of £4.88m for the financial year ending 2025, based on the most recent annual return filed with the Charity Commission.
How efficient is The Reader Organisation?
The Reader Organisation has a program ratio of 67.3%, meaning that share of its income goes directly to charitable activities. This is higher than 18% of UK Arts charities with income £1M to £10M (sample of 780 charities). See our methodology for how this is calculated.
When was The Reader Organisation registered as a charity?
The Reader Organisation was registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales on 19 November 2008 as charity number 1126806. It has been registered for 18 years.
Who runs The Reader Organisation?
The Reader Organisation is governed by a board of 7 trustees. The chair of trustees is Anita Marsland. Trustees are legally responsible for the charity's governance and are listed in full on its profile.
Where does The Reader Organisation operate?
The Reader Organisation operates across 3 areas: Northern Ireland, Scotland and England And Wales.
Is The Reader Organisation a registered charity?
Yes — The Reader Organisation is a registered charity in England and Wales, charity number 1126806.
Details
THE MANSION HOUSE
CALDERSTONES PARK
LIVERPOOL
L18 3JB
Registry Information
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Major UK charities in the same primary sector, drawn from the curated priority cohort.
Trustees
Also governs 1 other charity
Sectors & Classifications
Data & trust
- Register data refreshed
- 14 May 2026
- Methodology
- How metrics are calculated