2008 saw the introduction of an outreach programme of the Commonwealth Writers Prize. This will see prize winners taking part in reading workshops across the Commonwealth, in an effort to inspire greater things from local writers – particularly those whose backgrounds prevent them achieving their full potential.

The programme will provide online classroom resources for teachers to encourage children to read more and will see the linking up of reading groups around the Commonwealth to share ideas and encourage a greater participation in reading.

A greater number of national authors in print increases the opportunities for young people to read and helps provide role models to encourage others.
 
Friends are raising funds to support this project by providing the resources to produce reading guides, school materials and workshops.