This Number Confidence Week Gosport MP, Caroline Dinenage, is encouraging constituents to get involved and take the National Numeracy Challenge.
Since becoming an MP back in 2010, Caroline has raised the issue of adult literacy and numeracy skills repeatedly in Parliament, from speaking at Prime Ministers Questions, to forming and co-chairing the All Party Parliamentary Group for Maths and Numeracy and securing a BIS Select Committee Inquiry into these issues.
Back in 2013, she held a debate in the House of Commons on ‘Improving levels of adult literacy and numeracy’ where she said:
“There is a social stigma in being unable to read or write, which prevents individuals from seeking the help that they desperately need. Between a third and a half of adults with poor literacy and numeracy want to improve their skills, although less than 5% have actually been to a class. If we are to boost literacy and numeracy rates in the United Kingdom, we must first help learners to overcome the barriers created by social norms, and provide the help that people need right in the heart of our most vulnerable communities.”
Since then, she has successively supported efforts to boost numeracy and literacy skills, including most recently welcoming the new educational opportunities announced by the Prime Minister in September that means adults without an A-level or equivalent qualification will have the chance to take a free, fully-funded college course.
She is now again calling on constituents to get involved in this year’s National Numeracy Challenge, to raise awareness of the free, online resources that are available to residents across Gosport, Hill Head, Stubbington and Lee-on-the-Solent. This year, Olympic champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill and TV personality Bobby Seagull are spearheading the first ever Number Confidence Week.
Caroline said:
“The perception is that those struggling with maths are the minority. But actually roughly four in five adults have a low level of numeracy.
“From difficulties managing household bills, to employment barriers, numeracy skills are an important part of everyday life that can seriously affect the opportunities available to someone.
“As ever, this year I am encouraging constituents to get involved and see what amazing, free, online resources are available to help boost their numbers confidence.”