Low numeracy is dividing the nation
A stark divide in numeracy skills across the UK is leaving millions at risk of lower wages, unemployment and poorer wellbeing, according to new research released for National Numeracy Day.
But the charity wants to bring together employers, community organisations, and partners across the public and private sectors to work in the best ways for local communities.
Speaking about the new research to LBC Radio host Nick Ferrari this morning, Sam Sims, Chief Executive of National Numeracy, said the data revealed “a bit of a north-south divide”, with confidence and skills around numbers generally higher in southern England than in northern regions.”
However, Mr Sims stressed that the picture was more complex than a simple regional divide.
“What we see is actually every single community in the UK, when we look at the detail, there are areas of high numeracy and low numeracy,” he said. “That’s going to allow us to target support exactly where it’s needed and help communities be empowered to address these issues themselves.”
Localised solutions needed to tackle low numeracy effectively
The charity said the detailed data would help local authorities, schools and employers tailor support to the specific needs of communities.
Mr Sims argued that different regions required different solutions. In rural communities, online learning and transport access may be priorities, he said, while areas with high child poverty may benefit more from investment in family numeracy and school-readiness programmes.
“This year’s message for National Numeracy Day is all about counting on your community,” said Mr Sims. “Instead of dictating from the centre what should be done, we know the best people to address issues around low numeracy are local people, local employers, schools and community organisations.”
Low numeracy costs the UK up to £25bn a year
The charity warned that poor numeracy carries a heavy economic and social cost. According to its research, low numeracy costs the UK economy up to £25 billion every year, while adults with low number skills are estimated to earn on average £1,600 less annually than those with basic numeracy skills.
He added that improving basic maths confidence could boost wages, improve employment prospects and increase overall wellbeing.
“People who find maths or numbers challenging in their everyday lives are absolutely not alone,” Mr Sims said, noting that around half of UK adults struggle with numeracy. “There is real hope.”
The charity is encouraging people to take part in the National Numeracy Challenge, an online assessment designed to help adults improve their confidence with numbers in as little as 10 minutes.
New research maps low numeracy at ward level for the first time
The new research, which analysed more than 8,000 local wards across the UK, found some of the country’s strongest numeracy levels in affluent areas of London and the South East, including Finchley and Golders Green, Chipping Barnet, Twickenham, Wimbledon and Richmond Park.
By contrast, some of the weakest-performing areas included Stoke-on-Trent, Wolverhampton South East, Jarrow and Gateshead East, Easington in County Durham, Kingston upon Hull, Sheffield Brightside, Belfast West and Liverpool Walton.
Find out more about the research and join in with National Numeracy Day - there are heaps of free and helpful resources for adults and children.
Photograph: Charlie Griffiths, Pexels
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