The cross-party House of Lords Numeracy for Life Committee has
published its call for evidence.
The Committee's inquiry covers numeracy for life in England,
focusing particularly on the importance of numeracy in adult
life, and including teaching both children and adults in a
variety of settings.
The call for evidence covers questions on:
- attitudes to numeracy;
- numeracy skills;
- numeracy for adults;
- numeracy education.
of Oulton, Chair of the
Numeracy for Life Committee, said:
“Whilst we appear to be performing well in maths for students, we
also know that numeracy levels amongst adults are shockingly low
with approximately half of the adult population possessing the
numeracy skills expected of an 11-year old.
For many people this creates a barrier to employment and career
progression, impacts decisions about their financial management,
health and nutrition and often influences their children's
negative relationship with numeracy.
We are keen to hear from education providers, employers, local
authorities, charities, members of the public and other relevant
stakeholders to understand these issues and the wider numeracy
landscape in England across all ages.”
The complete list of questions, plus details of how to submit
evidence by the deadline of Monday 27 April
can be found on the Committee's website. The
Committee will report on its findings by the end of November
2026.
Notes to editors
- The call for evidence url is https://committees.parliament.uk/call-for-evidence/3877