Numeracy workshops fund opens for local businesses

APPLICATIONS to a fund to improve adult numeracy skills are now open.

The Multiply Workshop Fund is available to small businesses and community groups to help offer free, short-term sessions as part of the Multiply Adult Learning Programme.

The fund can offer applicants up to £3,000 to put towards the development of educational activities.

These activities aim to enable adults to: Feel more confident when using numbers in everyday life; increase their confidence with numeracy; improve their health and wellbeing through socialising, feeling included and learning a new skill or hobby.

Councillor Leagh Douglas, executive member for education and lifelong learning, said: “The first Adult Learning Programme was a hugely successful initiative with 115 residents from across the Borders taking part in a workshop of their choice.

“Feedback from providers was overwhelmingly positive with participants also confirming that not only had they increased their confidence with numbers, they experienced a greater sense of wellbeing from the opportunity to meet new people and learn a new skill.

“The team have made some refinements ahead of the second programme launching to ensure that participants and providers are able to gain even more benefit.

“One example is that they are hoping to offer workshops that will be suitable for families to attend and enjoy together.

“Once again, this is an exciting and worthwhile programme to be part of and I would encourage organisations to get their applications in as soon as they can.”

The workshops will be suitable for learners of all abilities – whether they are a beginner or more advanced – and they can learn at their own pace.

The workshops can include cookery, art, crafts, music, computing, orienteering or DIY – all with the aim of boosting learners’ confidence in their numeracy skills.

The fund is open until May 11.

The Adult Learning Programme runs between August 15 to February 28, 2025.

Applicants to the fund should ensure they can deliver workshops during these dates before applying.

For more information on the Multiply Adult Learning Programme, including eligibility criteria, visit: www. scotborders.gov.uk/multiplyworkshopfund