I'm part of a network of reading groups that offers refugees in Leeds the opportunity to read with others in a safe, inclusive and supportive environment. The reading groups are led by volunteer postgraduates at the University of Leeds. We see, first hand, how powerful it is to share stories, poems and songs (the high-brow, low-brow, things that raise your eyebrows) as an emotional and intellectual outlet and as a means of English language improvement. We would like to remove some of the barriers that refugees face in attending our sessions. This boils down, most fundamentally, to the cost of financing public transport. However, if we can raise enough money, this allows us to also provide teaching materials and books, transport to attend literary events in Leeds (such as the renowned Ilkley Literature Festival), and potentially even childcare. People forced from their homes deserve this, at the very least, so please consider supporting us.

JUST so you know I'm really serious, I will be running the Loch Ness Marathon on Sunday 23rd September for the cause.

Thanks for reading.x