MORE than 5,000 Essex residents have improved their numbers skills with free courses through Multiply in Essex.

Multiply has been running in Essex since January 2023. Offering bite-size training to adults aged 19 and above, over 5,000 people have so far benefitted from courses.

Delivered by a network of college and education providers, courses focus on things like:

• assisting residents to gain qualifications and progress at work
• support with managing finances
• helping children with their schoolwork

Charity 3Food4U runs both face-to-face and online Multiply courses. Subjects include everything from functional skills qualifications to cooking on a budget.

One of the participants, Jill, from Ongar, said: "I was very nervous. I was never any good at maths at school. But this was different, very relaxed and practical. I feel so happy I've achieved something."

Ian, from Loughton, said: "The course is very easy to understand, and I did it online in my own time. I've learnt so much and feel more confident with numbers."

The Multiply campaign is now in phase two. This will see at least 4,000 new opportunities created, including 800 specifically targeted to businesses, helping them upskill their workforce.

Multiply aims to address a skills gap in Essex, where adult numeracy ranks lower compared to the national average.

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Find out more and sign up to a course.

Read more about how Multiply is benefitting residents in Essex.