New research by the Department for Education and Skills shows that many people are failing to make much use of Christmas cards because of their poor literacy. One in eight of the adults questioned said that the amount of writing involved presented a serious obstacle to using Christmas cards for keeping in touch.

The research offered other insights into our Christmas mailing. On average: we each stay in touch with 14 people solely by Christmas card (and for a third of us that number rises to 20), women tend to send 12 more than men (and receive 13 more), one in seven adults send more than 75 cards per year, and we all get two more than we send!

Adult skills minister John Healey said in support of the government's 'Get On' literacy and numeracy campaign: "For those seven million people in the UK who do have difficulties with literacy and numeracy, there are thousands of free courses available across the country to help them improve their skills, which in turn can improve their career and job prospects. Why not make it your New Year’s resolution to ‘get on’ and improve your levels of reading, writing, language and maths? People wanting to make sure that they feel confident sending Christmas cards next year should call 08000 150 650 for free help and advice."

The government is aiming to persuade 750,000 adults to engage in training to raise their basic skills levels over the next three years.