Roughly 500,000 Irish adults have problems with reading and writing. If you have spare time on your hands and you're in a position to help those with literacy difficulties, the National Adult Literacy Agency is always looking for new tutors.

You don't need any special qualifications to become a tutor. They just ask that you are proficient in reading and writing skills yourself and that you would like to help someone with this type of learning problem. The work is voluntary and a 20-hour training programme is provided. Literacy schemes nationwide are always in need of voluntary, part-time tutors. They are also always happy to accept new students. To find the nearest literacy scheme in your area contact the National Adult Literacy Agency (tel: (01) 855 4332).