Did you know?
Disadvantaged children are twice as likely to need support with speech, language and communication than those in more affluent areas
In many parts of the country, over half of students start school lacking vital oracy skills
Young people who cannot express themselves verbally may experience behavioural problems, emotional and psychological difficulties
Children with good communication skills are four times more likely to get five A*-Cs at GCSE
Donate now
You can choose to make a one-off donation to the ESU, or you can set up a regular donation by Direct Debit to see your donation have even more impact.
Do you believe in the power of communication? Do you believe that all young people, regardless of the school they go to, should have the chance to learn how to express themselves effectively? Do you believe in the global exchange of ideas; that the better we can communicate, the easier it will be to resolve differences and to forge a more tolerant society? Perhaps you’ve participated in an English-Speaking Union programme or exchange and would like to ensure others have the same opportunities as you? Or perhaps you’re only too aware that reading and writing will only get you so far, it’s being able to talk that opens doors.
Whatever your motivation, donating to the English-Speaking Union will help us to address imbalances in opportunity and ensure that many more young people have the speaking and listening skills and cultural understanding they need to thrive.
Discover Debating has taught me to respect other people’s opinions and to solve arguments without a lot of drama and problems.
Shiphrah
Discover Debating participant
£55
could fund a school to take part in one of our national competitions, boosting young people’s confidence and oracy skills
£350
could fund a partial bursary for a young person to attend Debate Academy, giving them the chance to discuss world affairs and gain a broader perspective
£325
could fund a Discover Your Voice session at a school, helping up to 24 children feel that their voices matter