A volunteer-led organisation offering weekly shared reading sessions at Hinckley Library has celebrated recognition at the VAL Volunteer Awards 2026.
Leicestershire Shared Reading says it was named a finalist for Volunteer Led Organisation of the Year at the ceremony held at Winstanley House in Leicester on Friday 2 October.
Nicola Bennison and Helena Abbey attended the event and accepted the finalist recognition on behalf of the organisation. It was a finalist place, not a category win.
Making connections through books
Established in 2016, Leicestershire Shared Reading works with the county council's library service and The Reader to support groups across Leicestershire.
Volunteer leaders prepare readings and guide sessions where people can listen to literature and join the conversation. The organisation also offers Zoom groups for people who cannot attend in person.
In the organisation's release, Nicola Bennison said: “This recognition means so much to us. Our volunteers give their time with such generosity, and every session reflects the warmth and connection they help create.”
Joining the Hinckley group
The Hinckley Library group meets on Tuesdays from 10.30am to noon. The organisation's website says its library-based groups are free and do not require booking, homework or preparation.
Participants can listen rather than read aloud, and there is no obligation to attend every week. The sessions offer time to enjoy stories and poems in company.
Readers can find group information and contact details on the Leicestershire Shared Reading website.