A PROJECT to help adults in the Forest learn to read is being extended to help people develop their reading and start writing.

FRED Plus – an extension of Forest Read Easy Deal (FRED) – was launched by Lady Bathurst at the Forest Church in Cinderford.

Among those joining her was Sabrina Drew, a FRED learner, who has gone on to write The White Giant, a book based on her grandmother’s memoirs.

FRED co-ordinator Sheila Priest said: “There are more people than you would expect struggling to read and write fluently.

“We are there to help them if they, or their advocates, step up and contact us.

“Sabrina Drew is a great example of how making one phone call can change your life.

“Our tutors are trained in new techniques that address many of the issues that created challenges to people learning to read in the past.

“There is a second chance, whatever your circumstances or age, to learn to read and start writing.”

FRED started in 2011 and trains volunteer coaches who work with learners on a one-to-one basis.

There are currently more than 30 people trained as coaches and 15 pairs working together across the Forest.

FRED chairman Roger Deeks said: “Forest Read Easy Deal has made a major contribution to improve literacy in the Forest of Dean.

“The results have transformed lives, as people who have learnt to get by without reading are suddenly given a new opportunity that opens many doors that were previously closed.

“Last year it became apparent that there were many current learners and members of the public for whom reading was at a rudimentary stage and who wanted to improve their reading skills.

“There was also a demand for people to progress to being able to write and this has led to the development of FRED plus and coaches and resources will be available to offer this extra learning opportunity.

“We were particularly pleased that Lady Bathurst was able to join us as she has done a great deal to support literacy in the county.”

Contacts co-ordinator Malcolm Vine added: “I have worked as a FRED coach and seen the benefits it can offer.

“I have recently joined the committee as contacts co-ordinator to help recruit learners and I’m happy to meet organisations to explain what FRED offers and the difference it can make for individuals and employers.”

For more information call 0774 637 1353 or e-mail [email protected]