A funded adult numeracy programme, Multiply, has been making waves in North Yorkshire, boosting the confidence of 70% of its learners and propelling 20% towards further education or targeted services. Since its inception, Multiply has supported 880 learners, positively impacting the community and fostering a culture of learning and growth.
Supported by Better Connect and a network of partner organisations across York and North Yorkshire, Multiply offers courses, activities, and personalized support aimed at improving numeracy skills, financial management, and overall confidence. The programme caters to individuals over the age of 19 who lack a maths GCSE at grade C or equivalent, providing them with essential skills to navigate various aspects of life, including employment opportunities.
Led by a dedicated central team, Multiply is a flagship numeracy skills course funded by the UK government in collaboration with the Adult Learning Service of North Yorkshire Council, City of York Council, and Better Connect. With a commitment to empowering individuals through education, Multiply has been instrumental in transforming lives and opening doors to new opportunities.
Recently, Better Connect organized an event in York to commemorate two years of Multiply’s impactful journey. The event brought together participants and 17 local delivery partners to celebrate the program’s success in empowering residents across York and North Yorkshire.
Christine Brass, Multiply Programme Manager at Better Connect, shared her excitement about the program’s impact, stating: “I love getting together with the partners and hearing what they have to say. They’re always so inspirational. Everybody’s keen to be more joined up, to maximise the use of resources and to get involved with other partners on the Multiply programme. I think if we do that, we’ll reach far more people.”
Among the success stories are refugees Mozhgan Omari and Ahmad Wahid, supported by Craven College. Mrs. Omari shared her experience, stating: “Multiply courses have transformed our lives, and we have learnt so much. On Saturday last weekend, we held our fourth pop-up restaurant at Embsay Village Hall, and it was a sell-out. We served authentic Afghani dishes, including kabuli pilau, Afghan rolls, qorma kofta, sabzi and many more. I want the people of Skipton and beyond to taste the flavours, aromas and culinary traditions of our homeland cuisine. We have been touched by the support of people who have opened their hearts and homes for our family.”
Another learner, Kian Gurney, shared his journey: “Multiply has helped me to review and understand my finances, develop a CV and secure voluntary work, which led to paid part-time employment. Alongside, I’ve also started a retail job and am no longer alcohol-dependent.”
Supported by a £2.6 million grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Multiply aims to continue its mission of equipping working-age individuals with essential numeracy skills. Through a diverse range of free courses, including business-focused classes, cooking workshops, and crafts, Multiply and its partners aspire to reach even more individuals and businesses in 2024.
Christine Brass expressed enthusiasm for the programme’s future, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and resource optimisation. With a shared vision of reaching more people and making learning enjoyable, Multiply remains committed to fostering a numerate and confident community in North Yorkshire.
To learn more about how Better Connect supports the Multiply programme, visit their website.
