For one Royal Navy veteran, Reading Force has “created a strong emotional connection to reading and to the military community” for his blended family.
Jamie Phillips joined the Royal Navy at the age of 16 and proudly served for 20 years as a Warfare Rating. Over his career, he served on both Type 42 and Type 45 Destroyers and left the service as a Chief Gunner. Since leaving the service, he has signed up to Reading Force after hearing about the charity from a Reading Force Ambassador.
A Sense of Belonging
“We’re a blended family with four children—two boys aged 12 and 8, and two girls aged 10 and 8,” he says. “Being part of Reading Force gives our children a sense of belonging and inclusion. It’s more than just receiving books—it’s about feeling recognised and connected as part of a wider military family. That sense of community means a lot to all of us.”
He admits that reading didn’t come naturally to him as a child: “I used to read the blurb on the back of the book and then try to brief my mum on what I thought the book was about!” But becoming a parent has given him a new appreciation for shared reading. “Now, we often read together or talk about the books as a family. It’s sparked conversations, debates, and laughter—and that shared time has become something we all look forward to. It’s like having our own little book club!”
Supporting Neurodivergent Readers
The charity’s inclusive ethos has also made a real difference to their eldest son. “The eldest has dyslexia and has always struggled with reading. I’m genuinely thankful that we signed up to Reading Force because it’s had such a positive impact. The inclusive nature of the charity has helped him build confidence with reading. He was sent a book which was perfectly suited to his reading-age and he actually enjoyed it—something we never thought possible.”
As a veteran, he’s also appreciated how Reading Force has recognised his children as military children and made them feel valued.
“They were thrilled to receive something through the post! The quality of the books and the joy of filling in their scrapbooks—it’s all been a hugely positive experience.”
He sees Reading Force as more than just a reading charity: “It recognises the unique dynamics of military families and creates a simple yet powerful way to bring people together. It’s such a smart and heartfelt initiative.”
Looking to the Future
As a parent, he’s keen to see the positive habits encouraged by Reading Force carry forward. “My hope is that the children continue to see reading as something enjoyable and valuable—not just a school task. I want them to explore different genres, find books that inspire them, and eventually pass on that love of reading to their own children. Most importantly, I want them to see reading as a gateway to imagination, understanding, and connection.”
Now working for SeaBot Maritime as an Instructional Systems Designer, he first discovered Reading Force through a visit by Reading Force Ambassador, Lucy.
“Her passion and commitment were genuinely inspiring. I signed up straight away, and I’m proud to say SeaBot Maritime has since become a corporate sponsor. We’re honoured to support such a meaningful initiative that supports military families through shared reading.”
Thinking About Getting Involved?
Jamie’s message to other families who might be thinking about signing up to Reading Force? “Don’t hesitate. There’s huge value in what Reading Force offers, not just in terms of books, but in the quality time it encourages with your children. It’s especially meaningful for veteran families like ours, helping maintain those military links and showing our kids that they’re part of something bigger.”