Learners, volunteers, mentors and service providers involved in the Multiply adult numeracy programme came together at a celebration event held at County Hall on Friday 21 February.
Over the past three years, the government-funded Multiply initiative has helped hundreds of adults across Leicestershire build confidence with numbers, making a real difference in their lives.
The celebration event – entitled ‘The Power of Partnerships’ - was held in the Council Chamber by Leicestershire County Council and National Numeracy to celebrate the achievements of learners, volunteers, and providers. Its aim was to recognise the dedication and hard work of those who have contributed to the programme’s success.
Winners were celebrated for their commitment to breaking down barriers to numeracy, supporting communities, and empowering individuals with essential life skills.
Multiply has transformed lives, helping people gain the confidence to manage their finances, explore new opportunities, and support their families. We’re incredibly proud of everyone involved and delighted to celebrate their achievements today.
Person:Councillor Christine Radford, cabinet member for adults & communities
The winners were:
Innovative Substantive Delivery - HomeStart South Leicestershire: HomeStart South Leicestershire’s ‘Family Know How’ course was recognised for its innovative approach to building numeracy skills through cooking on a budget. By weaving budgeting, price comparisons, and portion calculations into meal preparation, the course has empowered parents to develop confidence with numbers in a practical and supportive way.
Innovative Engagement Activity - Th!nkFC: Th!nkFC’s Entrepreneur Summer School was celebrated for its inclusive and creative approach to business education. Designed for adults, parents, and children, the programme covered essential business fundamentals while encouraging innovation and networking. Its success has led to ongoing community initiatives, including an annual Boardgames Festival and a young DJ’s emerging career.
Tutor - Dorothy Francis (CASE): Dorothy Francis was recognised for her outstanding dedication to numeracy support. She has provided tailored financial workshops for Afghan refugee families in partnership with the Mears Group and has helped women secure their financial futures through pension guidance. Her passion and innovative outreach have made a life-changing impact on many.
Learner Journey - Danielle Cobby: Danielle’s journey through Multiply has been truly inspiring. Her newfound confidence led her to take on a leadership role in sessions and secure a voluntary position at Falcon Support Services, where she now supports others facing similar challenges. Her story is a testament to the power of learning in transforming lives.
Volunteer - Peter Jopson: Starting as a learner on a Cook, Meet, and Eat course, Peter soon became a valued Multiply volunteer. As a retired army chef, he has shared his cooking expertise, led demonstrations, and encouraged learners to gain confidence in the kitchen. His dedication and willingness to support others have made a lasting impact.
Numeracy Champion Recognition - Jason Hamilton Smith (Falcon Support Services): In his role as a Numeracy Champion, Jason has helped and supported hundreds of learners and residents to boost their numeracy skills and empowered them to take the next step on their numeracy journey.
The winners were chosen by a five-member panel made up of representatives from Leicestershire County Council and National Numeracy.
Leicestershire County Council was awarded £3 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in 2022 as part of the national Multiply programme to deliver hundreds of free courses, support and workshops to adults aged 19 and over who needed help to improve their numeracy skills.
The Leicestershire Multiply programme, which comes to an end on 31 March, was led by the council’s Adult Learning Service and focused on giving people the numeracy skills for everyday life, to allow them to be confident in things like budgeting, working out bills, helping with children’s homework and improving job prospects.
The free Multiply courses were available across Leicestershire in person or online, at work or at home, either on a part-time or intensive basis.
They were delivered by the council and a range of partners, including further education colleges and training providers, charitable and voluntary groups, and employers.