Hull adults struggle most with maths, study finds

A numeracy charity is calling for extra government support after its research suggested more adults in Hull than anywhere else in the UK struggle with maths.

National Numeracy said its estimates of overall numeracy confidence and skills saw the city rank the lowest out of all 379 local authority areas.

The report found a north-south divide in maths skills, and the charity said poor numeracy could leave people "more vulnerable to debt, unemployment, poor health and fraud".

Chief executive Sam Sims said: "Where you live should never determine your opportunity to thrive with numbers."

He added: "We know that high levels of numeracy and number confidence lead to better and higher wages, greater career progression... so we know that actually improving numeracy can make a real difference.

"We want to be able to see overall greater investment in the communities that need the support the most, and we want to bring together employers, education providers, charities and community organisations to direct that support where it's most needed."

The figures were compiled after 31,000 people rated their maths skills and completed a short online numeracy test.

A credit rating agency then provided data on age, gender, affluence levels and employment status to help draw up the results.

Ian Thompson, who runs a business teaching adults and children maths in Hull and elsewhere, described the report as "really disappointing", but added: "I don't think it reflects on the people that live here."

He said numeracy was vital to the local economy.

"For many adults, maths is associated with anxiety and a massive lack of confidence that started many years ago," he said.

"That can become like a barrier in everyday life, and I think the support hasn't been enough to help people get beyond that."

A Hull City Council spokesperson said: "It is important to recognise that the findings of the UK Numeracy Index are based on predicted levels of numeracy need based on those who have chosen to respond to a national website rather than direct assessment of residents' mathematical abilities or the performance of local education providers in Hull.

"We recognise the importance of improving numeracy abilities and are committed to providing accessible, inclusive learning opportunities that support residents to develop essential skills, improve employment prospects, and progress in education."

A spokesperson for the Department for Work and Pensions said: "Through the Adult Skills Fund, eligible adults can access fully funded English and maths provision, with providers and local leaders given flexibility to determine how to best meet local needs.

"We are also working with partners across the skills sector to help more adults access the training opportunities they need to succeed."

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