£14 million scheme launched to support adults in Greater Manchester with numeracy skills

Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has launched a new £14 million scheme to support adults in the city-region with learning essential numeracy skills.

The Multiply scheme is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and managed by the Department of Education, to help adults aged 19 and over without their GCSE Maths or equivalent. The programme focuses on relevant numeracy skills for everyday life as well as to boost career prospects and open up access to further education opportunities which typically require a basic maths qualification.

The scheme is designed to be accessible and flexible, so will include both face-to-face and online support designed to fit around people’s family, lifestyle and work commitments. Greater Manchester residents already enrolled on Level 2 Maths via the Adult Education Budget can also access extra support to achieve their qualification through Multiply. 

Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, Greater Manchester’s lead for Education, Work, Skills, Apprenticeships and Digital, said:

“Here in Greater Manchester, we are excited to launch the Multiply scheme. We want to help residents manage money better, progress into further learning, and get into good jobs. And we want businesses to take advantage of the programme to upskill their staff, boost productivity, and lead to more people working and living in Greater Manchester.”

The Growth Company have been commissioned by GMCA to deliver Multiply training in partnership with 12 supply chain partners across the city-region. Following the successful pilot, the Growth Company are now running a range of courses including Building Numeracy Confidence, Healthy/Independent Living, Reducing the Cost of Living and Numeracy for Employment.

Greater Manchester Learning Provider Network (GMLPN) have also been commissioned by GMCA to support the Further Education sector with capacity building. The additional support will help FE providers deliver maths.

Joanne Roney OBE, Greater Manchester’s Chief Executive lead for Education, Work, Skills, Apprenticeships and Digital, Chief Executive at Manchester City Council, said:

“I am thrilled to see the launch of the Multiply programme. 

“With Multiply, individuals will have access to personalised learning plans and a wide range of training options that will allow them to grow and thrive in their careers and everyday lives. I am proud that Greater Manchester is taking a leading role in supporting the development of our workforce, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact that Multiply will have on the lives of our residents”