Buckie-based course set to boost adult numeracy skills
A numeracy skills programme for adults is set to be rolled out locally.
Moray Multiply aims to give adults a boost with their maths, both in their everyday lives and to help them secure employment.
Behind the scheme is Salvation Army Employment Plus Employment Development Co-ordinator and Numeracy Champion Cara Kennie, who is based at Buckie Salvation Corps.
She said: “I’ve secured a contract with Moray Council, funded by the UK government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund Multiply programme, to run this.
“This programme, known as Moray Multiply, focuses on improving numeracy skills across the region, targeting individuals who don’t already have a Higher in Maths as people who improve their numeracy skills are more likely to be in employment, earn higher wages and have better wellbeing.
“The programme, which lasts four weeks depending on individual needs, is delivered either one-on-one or in groups. The main goal is to enhance participants' numeracy skills, boost their confidence in managing finances and improve their overall financial situation.
“Participants will complete 10 hours of learning focused on money management, using resources such as a Money Management Workbook, Better-off Calculations and Mid-life MOTs. Additionally, participants will have access to food provisions and be signposted to other support organisations as needed.
“Moray Multiply seeks to make numeracy more approachable and accessible by providing a variety of customised support services, including informal workshops, one to one sessions, and digital skills, ensuring that learning is tailored to each participant's unique environment and needs.”
Ms Kennie added that more information on the scheme can be found at a forthcoming careers week running over November 11-15. The course will primarily be run from Buckie Salvation Army Corps although Ms Kennie noted that she would be willing to travel across Moray depending on numbers.
For more information, and to sign up, contact her via email at Cara.Kennie@salvationarmy.org.uk or phone 07551 855719.
The Employment Plus programme, which is run by the Salvation Army in conjunction with a range of partner agencies, seeks to provide a “hand up rather than a hand-out” holistic approach to helping people - some of whom may be at a very low ebb in their lives - back into work.
When someone first signs up an initial pathway assessment is conducted to find their barriers to employment, and then they are placed on either wellbeing and life skills, training, employment, or in work support.
Ms Kennie said: “You have to get people's wellbeing sorted first before you try and help them get a job or training.
“They need to be in the right place before they can go and get a job. It's a holistic, wraparound service and they can be with us for as long as they need, whether that's weeks or months. It could involve something as simple as creating a CV or helping with social skills to far more complex issues.
"Another important part of this is supporting people once they're in work as or if needed. This could be ensuring their employer is making reasonable adjustments, for example if they have disabilities.”
