Multiply in Essex aims to empower Essex residents aged 19 and over with essential number skills to improve their personal and professional lives. Free Multiply courses can help people advance their career, better manage their money, help their child with homework or just feel more confident working with numbers.
Multiply can also be a powerful tool for change. It can give people the maths skills they need to take on life’s challenges and find new opportunities for improvement. Thomas Cartwell is one such learner who discovered budgeting and cooking skills through a Multiply course, which led to renewed self-confidence and a path to a healthier life.
Thomas is a 35-year-old father of two, who faced a significant life challenge when a relationship breakdown led to homelessness. A back injury for which he was awaiting surgery and additional health issues like asthma left Thomas unable to work. He found refuge at an emergency night shelter in Colchester, Essex.
The transition affected Thomas’ mental health, which impaired his ability to manage finances effectively. His inactivity due to physical ailments caused weight gain. Down but determined, Thomas wanted to overcome his challenges. He wanted to manage his money, get his own place and provide for his children.
Thomas sought help at Beacon House Occupational Therapy. His occupational therapist recommended a Multiply course as a part of his rehabilitation plan. The aim was to restore his confidence and independence through practical skills.
The Multiply course included sessions to improve his maths skills and budgeting, and cooking and meal planning. The cooking sessions included learning to cook using an air fryer, focusing on making the most of limited resources. Thomas was particularly drawn to the cooking classes, where he learned how to prepare nutritious but affordable meals.
“The course was good and the approaches the course facilitator used were excellent,” said Thomas. “I am looking forward to cooking healthy meals on a budget when I move into my new accommodation.”
Sarah Joslin, Occupational Therapist at Beacon House said: “Thomas appears brighter and he has even been encouraging some of his peers to sign up to the course. The fact that he hasn’t missed a session shows an improvement in his motivation.”
Learn more about Multiply and find a course.