Inverclyde residents are being urged to make sure numbers count and don’t add up to cause them problems.

The council is launching a new programme called Multiply: Make Numbers Count. It aims to transform the lives of adults by improving their numeracy skills through tailored training and support.

Inverclyde Council received funding for the project from the UK Government’s shared prosperity initiative until March 2025. It will target adults aged 19+ who have not previously attained a Level 2/SCQF Level 5 or higher maths qualifications.

The project is being led by the authority’s Community Learning and Development Service with staff in place to deliver it. Now, Multiply: Make Numbers Count is looking for volunteers who think they have the skills and are looking for an opportunity to help others in their community.

Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council’s education and communities convener, said: “Whether you are worried about helping your children with their homework, managing your money, or struggling with numbers in general, these activities and courses will build your confidence. 

“We want to stop the fear of numbers many people have.

“This support is free and accessible and I hope as many people as possible who might benefit will take part.”

Volunteers will be given full training and ongoing commitment could range from two to four hours per week, depending on what suits you.

Some of the support you could offer as a volunteer includes comparing and contrasting deals to help people save money on their shopping, mobile phone or energy bills, creating a budget that works for them and their family, going shopping to support understanding of financial transactions, or working with people who have committed offences to understand the financial commitments in sustaining their tenancy.

If you would like to find out more about volunteering or benefitting from Multiply: Make Numbers Count, please email CLD.admin@inverclyde.gov.uk or phone 01475 715450 before Friday, October 13 to request an application and information pack.

For more information, click here to go to Inverclyde Council’s website https://bit.ly/3PRajXc