‘Far too many adults cannot read nor do maths’
Nearly half of all British adults have problems with simple numeracy and literacy skills, according to one "shocking" new survey.
A study of adults in the UK found that almost 17 million people aged over 16 cannot understanding small tasks in maths and English that often causes them to struggle with household bills and reading food labels.
The level of skill is suspected to be equivalent to that of a schoolchild aged between nine and 11 years old.
Some campaigners have expressed their outrage at the new figures and suggested that there are "far too many" adults who do not have suitable skills needed for everyday life.
Among those standing up to the news, Carol Taylor, director for research and development at the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education, said: "Put simply, around one in six of the adult population has difficulty with aspects of reading and writing which means they are seriously disadvantaged as employees, citizens and parents."
Furthermore, in a recent announcement, Iain McMillan, director of CBI Scotland warned that poor spelling and grammar amongst school leavers is preventing many from getting a job.
