Since its launch, the programme, run by the council, has supported over 450 adults. As of December 2024, 360 learners had registered for Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) courses.

So far, 283 SQA qualifications have been achieved, with more expected each term. Key achievements include:

• 25 learners earning SQA qualifications focused on financial literacy.
• 44 learners gaining an SQA in Numeracy: Using Number - Money.
• 30 learners earning an SQA in Lifeskills Mathematics: Money.
• 51 learners achieving an SQA in Applications of Mathematics: Manage Money and Data.

In addition, the Sum It Up programme has helped 117 learners earn qualifications in Numeracy: Using Numbers – Measuring, integrated into practical cookery and budgeting classes.

These sessions, which are free and delivered in locations across North Lanarkshire, have empowered participants to prepare healthier, budget-friendly meals while gaining nationally recognised qualifications.

In August 2024, 12 learners achieved National 5 qualifications, with 16 more currently enrolled. 52 learners even earned multiple qualifications since joining the programme.

But the impact of ‘Sum It Up’ is more than just gaining new skills and qualifications:

• 77% of learners reported improvements in their personal life and mental/physical health.
• 95% saw an increase in numeracy skills.
• 98% expressed high satisfaction with their learning experience.

Some learners have even progressed to higher education, including university studies in Primary Teaching.

Councillor Michael McBride, Convener of Education, praised the programme’s success, stating:

"The Sum It Up initiative has been truly life-changing for many of our learners, providing them with essential skills and qualifications that boost their confidence and open doors to further education and employment.

It is a key part of our tackling poverty drive, and we remain committed to delivering high-quality learning opportunities that help people take control of their finances and improve their future prospects."

The community learning and development Sum it up project, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), has provided bespoke numeracy learning across Adult Learning, Family Learning and Youth, complementing existing provision. It focuses on adults aged 19 and over (or those aged 16 to 19 who are not in education, employment, or training) who aspire to improve their numeracy and who have little or no numeracy qualifications.

Examples of some of the classes provided by the Sum It Up team include:

Savvy Savers - Community Based Adult Learning opportunity delivered in partnership with colleagues for the Tackling Poverty Team, allowing learners to learn more about reducing costs, budgeting, savings, credit unions and affordable credit. During the sessions, the learners have the chance to build their confidence in numeracy and work towards gaining an SQA Qualification.

Maths for Parents – A number of practical courses were delivered in schools and family learning centres to build the confidence of parents and carers in supporting their child/children with maths in the home and school.

Green Gym - Building confidence in numeracy, through nature, measuring, using thermometers to highlight greenhouse effects and showcasing how numbers and nature align.

Preparation for Christmas – In responding to Christmas being a time of financial stress, learners get involved in activities like planning Christmas dinner, budgeting, food comparisons and taster sessions, gift giving and more. Learners gain everyday skills to help them manage their money better and avoid the financial stress and burden of Christmas.

Carbon Counters – Learners look at climate change and how their individual actions can have a positive impact in reducing their carbon footprint and that of North Lanarkshire. As a group they have looked at the carbon footprint of various activities, for example, travelling one mile by bus costs 150g of C02e (Carbon dioxide equivalent)-compared to 710g of C02e by car.

If you, or anyone you know, is interested in finding out more about the free classes provided across our communities through “Sum it up” you can contact: sumitup@northlan.gov.uk.