AS energy bills and the cost of living rise, adult education provider, ACL Essex, is highlighting the support available to people of Harlow.

Responding to the cost-of-living crisis, the learning provider is delivering courses that will help residents find ways to reduce their bills, gain qualifications to boost their career prospects and increase earnings.

Where is your money going?

For those looking to improve their financial wellbeing, ACL Essex is offering free courses that provide tips and advice. The courses cover topics such as how to save money on your energy bills, low-cost family activities, cooking on a budget, top tips to make your money go further, how to support you and your family during a crisis, building your confidence, and sustainable cost savings.

Residents who would like to improve life and job skills can enrol on free courses in English, Maths, Digital, Family Learning and Mental Health. Residents can also gain fully funded qualifications in a range of subject areas including business and management, accounting, digital, early years, hairdressing and beauty, plus health medical and care. There are also opportunities to ‘earn while you learn’ to gain valuable skills on a wide range of apprenticeship programmes.

For residents seeking an entrepreneurial path, ACL is also offering the chance to enrol on low cost (from £13) ‘Running a Business’ courses to support those wanting to start-up their own venture – these are just a handful of low-cost or potentially free opportunities that ACL learners have available to them.

Lisa Jarentowski, Principal, ACL Essex, said: “It’s a hard time for everyone at the moment, with the cost of living rising to the highest it’s been in recent times. At ACL Essex, we want to show residents that we have courses that can help them manage financial stress, and also support them to progress in their career to increase their earnings.”

She continued: “Our centres are open for residents to talk to our teams and gain the advice they need. We want to let people know we’re here to help in this difficult time.”

Residents can find more information about support available by visiting the ACL website www.aclessex.com/financial-wellbeing, visiting their local centre or calling 0345 603 7635.