Fylde residents are building confidence and unlocking new opportunities thanks to the fantastic free Multiply programme, delivered through an exciting partnership between Fylde Council and Blackpool & The Fylde College.
Between October and December 2025, 33 residents completed courses designed to boost everyday numeracy skills, with 10 progressing onto further qualifications in maths, English and digital skills. The programme, funded through UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment, brings practical, friendly sessions directly into local communities across the borough.
The real success stories speak for themselves. Derek from Fylde joined a Multiply course to feel braver with technology and has since progressed to a Digital Functional Skills Qualification. Despite challenges with dyslexia, Derek now shops online safely and confidently uses his phone and kindle independently. Fellow learner Agata overcame her fear of computers after completing the programme, while Iveta built on her existing maths and English qualifications to develop valuable ICT terminology and theory knowledge.
Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “These wonderful success stories show exactly why we invested in bringing Multiply to Fylde. Seeing residents like Derek, Agata and Iveta gain confidence and develop skills that genuinely improve their daily lives is incredibly rewarding. This programme proves that it’s never too late to learn something new.”
Simon Hughes, Executive Principal of Blackpool & The Fylde College, added: “Multiply is about giving people practical numeracy skills that can be of real benefit to them in everyday life. Working with Fylde Council has enabled us to deliver learning in community settings that feels accessible, engaging and supportive for learners. The progression achieved on this programme shows the true social value of targeted, locally delivered provision which is helping people from all kinds of starting points to grow their confidence and get ahead in life.”
Free courses continue to run until 31 March 2026, with sessions including ‘Making Sense of Money’, ‘Healthy Living on a Budget’ and ‘Maths Made Easy’ available in community venues across the borough. Find out more by emailing seasiderscourses@blackpool.ac.uk or call 01253 504690.
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