Dozens of Fylde residents have transformed their confidence with money, maths and technology after completing free courses delivered through the government-funded Multiply programme – and the results speak for themselves.
Running from September 2025 to March 2026, Multiply – funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) – offered free, flexible learning to adults across the borough who wanted to strengthen their numeracy skills and feel more in control of their finances. From budgeting workshops and savings courses to digital skills sessions, the programme met people where they were and helped them take meaningful steps forward.
Across the six month period in which the programme was delivered, 86 residents improved their basic skills and reported increased employability, 49 people gained a qualification or completed a course, and 17 adults achieved a maths qualification – all exceeding the programme’s original targets. Courses were delivered at community venues including the Well Community Centre in Lytham, The Pod at Park View in St Annes, and Weeton Barracks, ensuring learning was as accessible as possible for different communities across the borough.
The programme also supported some of our most vulnerable residents. One participant, Stuart, joined the Savvy Saver course after losing his wife and needing to manage his finances independently for the first time. He went on to complete an ICT course and is now preparing to start Functional Skills Maths – a remarkable journey that reflects the real-life difference Multiply makes.
Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council said: “Multiply has been a wonderful example of what’s possible when learning is brought directly into our communities. These aren’t just statistics – behind every number is a resident who has gained confidence, new skills and a brighter outlook. I’m incredibly proud of what this programme has achieved for people across Fylde, and I’d like to thank everyone involved in delivering it so successfully.”
Mary Roberts, Assistant Principal Access & Continuing Education, added: “We are proud to have worked in partnership with Fylde Council to deliver Multiply across the borough. The programme has made a real difference by supporting adults to build confidence in maths, money management and digital skills, often taking their first steps back into learning. These outcomes show the power of community-based provision to change lives and open up new opportunities.”
Multiply in Fylde was delivered in partnership with Blackpool and the Fylde College and formed part of Fylde Council’s wider UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment in skills, employment and community wellbeing.
Keep up to date with the latest Fylde Council news by following us on social media or subscribing to our newsletter. Any new information will be posted directly through these channels, so if you are following us, you’ll be the first to know.
