Key points:
- Practical maths skills supported everyday decision-making
- Increased confidence reduced financial stress
- Learning enabled learners to support others and save money
Evidence content
For many adults, managing rising living costs can feel overwhelming without the confidence or knowledge to compare prices, budget effectively and make informed financial decisions.
Moneywise was developed by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Housing and Employment Team to support residents living in social housing who may be at risk of falling into arrears. The course focused on practical maths and financial skills that could be applied directly in everyday life.
Local resident Evelyn joined the course wanting to better understand how to save money, identify good deals and reduce household costs, particularly around shopping and energy use.
The course covered practical topics such as:
- comparing prices and value
- reducing energy costs
- understanding bills and broadband pricing
- applying maths skills in everyday situations
As Evelyn’s confidence grew, she began using these skills regularly outside the classroom.
“I am using lots more maths in my day-to-day life and I am always checking prices, like how much things will cost me per gram.”
The learning quickly translated into practical savings.
“I have been saving about £10 a week… I have also been able to save enough to pay for a new passport.”
Alongside financial improvements, Evelyn described a wider impact on her wellbeing and stress levels.
“I feel less stressed by using what I learned on the course.”
The course also influenced wider behaviours around consumption and sustainability. Evelyn became more conscious of energy use, reducing waste, reusing items and finding low-cost or free household goods.
Importantly, the knowledge gained extended beyond her own household. She began helping family members and others with shopping decisions and price comparisons.
“I have even been able to help others do their shopping, assisting them with some price comparisons.”
This case highlights how practical adult learning can improve everyday resilience. By building confidence in applying maths and financial skills, learners are better equipped to manage costs, reduce stress and make informed choices that improve both financial wellbeing and daily life.
The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea
K&C Adult learning Service is an adult community learning provider within the Economy and Learning Team of the Council.
- Maximising access to high quality learning opportunities
- Supporting progression in its widest sense
- Providing learning opportunities that meet health and wellbeing priorities
- Tackling issues affecting residents, families and children in the borough including isolation and digital exclusion
- Promoting social renewal by bringing learners together from different backgrounds, cultures and socio-economic groups
