Literacy and Wellbeing Conference 2026
 Click here to check out the Literacy and Wellbeing Booklet
Over 100 service providers from Health, Education, Community, and the Voluntary sectors in Kerry turned out for the first ever Kerry Literacy and Wellbeing Conference in the Rose Hotel Tralee on the 11th of June. Delegates heard that 1 in every 5 adults in Ireland have difficulty with basic reading and writing. This number increases for digital literacy, numeracy, health literacy, and financial literacy. As we move to a digital society this results in many people being unable to access services if all provided digitally. Service providers at the conference pledged practical support such as help with form filling, making forms easier to read, simplifying written communication, and providing alternatives to digital only communication such as a phone call or in person support. Funded through the Collaboration and Innovation Fund under the Adult Literacy for Life Strategy, this conference was coordinated by the Health Promotion and Improvement Team at HSE South West and by Kerry Public Participation Network, on behalf of the Kerry Regional Adult Literacy Coalition. Máire O’ Leary, Senior Health Promotion Officer, HSE South West, said: “This conference offered practical guidance on using plain language, designing clearer forms and digital content, and recognising hidden literacy challenges. It also provided a space for collaboration and shared learning across organisations.” Paula Tiller, Regional Literacy Co-Ordinator for Kerry, commented: “Ideally, our service users should be able to act on a single reading of any material provided by our service. Clear communication is essential to ensuring people can access the supports they need.” Caroline Toal, Kerry Public Participation Network Development Officer , added: “Literacy difficulties can significantly affect a person’s ability to access services, make informed decisions and participate fully in society. Increasing awareness across sectors is vital to ensuring people are not left behind.” Key conference message: Can your service user act after a single reading? A couple of small wins we can all make (all in this booklet: Literacy and Wellbeing Booklet)
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