Stoke-on-Trent low reading skills linked to poor credit scores, study finds
The National Literacy Trust thinks getting more books into the hands of children is a solution
Research conducted by Experian has identified a correlation between low literacy levels and poorer financial outcomes, with Stoke-on-Trent among the areas in the UK most affected.
Based on an analysis of nearly 12 million UK credit profiles alongside national literacy data, places with low literacy levels, including Stoke-on-Trent, have average credit scores between 6% to 12% below the UK average of 850. Stoke-on-Trent's average credit score stands at 787, which is 7% lower than the national average according to the research.
Recognising the long-term impact of early literacy skills not only on education but also on financial confidence, Experian has teamed up with the National Literacy Trust to launch The Library of No Returns. This initiative is designed to remove barriers to reading by providing children with books they can own and keep.
Through the programme, children and families can enter a story-led environment where they access books for free, participate in reading activities, and build literacy confidence from an early age. Each child receives a book to take home without any return obligation. The initiative also offers guidance on enhancing financial confidence to highlight the connection between literacy skills and money management.
Jason Vit from the National Literacy Trust emphasises that reading for pleasure not only supports literacy but also builds confidence, improves well-being, and can influence financial skills later in life. Jason is available for interviews to discuss the findings and the importance of giving children a strong start to shape better future outcomes.
The Library of No Returns initiative will feature a collection of 5,000 books donated by Experian, curated by the National Literacy Reading Team. The collection caters to children aged three to ten and includes a diverse range of content such as fiction, fact books, lift-the-flap and picture books.
The research conducted by Experian took place between 1st November and 31st December 2025, with a sample size of 11,983,585 credit profiles. Full methodology can be requested from Experian UK.
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