Thursday 10 June 2010
If you are one of the many people in the UK who struggle with banking and
finance, adult literacy and numeracy courses may help you.
A new report from Consumer Focus has found that a million people in the UK
do not have a bank account and that a lack of maths skills and problems
with reading and writing contributes to this.
Aside from going without a bank account – which means no cash machines, no
cheque book and no overdraft – people with a lack of basic skills often
find themselves in over their head when it comes to other personal finance
issues.
Everything from applying for a loan or mortgage, or taking out insurance
and putting money into a savings account is difficult for many
people.
If you are finding it hard to get on with life because of your lack of
basic skills, learndirect centres offer a wide range of
maths courses and English courses to help you. You can even have the option
to learn at home or learn at work to help you to fit it around your day and
your other commitments.
Consumer Focus’ chief, Mike O’Connor, explained, "banks are not charitable
institutions, but they are a necessary gateway to the benefits of an
increasingly online and cashless economy." He added, "life without a bank
account can cost time, money and convenience. It is another stark reminder
that those with less often end up paying more."
Take the Ready When You Are challenge with Johnny Ball and
Eamonn Holmes – a fun way to test your English and maths skills.
