WEA Impact

There is no doubt that inequality exists in the UK

As do illnesses, loneliness and the gradual fraying of communities. We believe that adult education forms part of the cure. 

We work with such conviction because each day we hear how important our courses are from our learners. Their stories are inspiring: you can read them here.

But sometimes individual learner stories are not enough.

The priorities of our funders are changing.

The UK Government is committed to lifelong learning and investing in education, but its focus is significantly on higher-level skills for jobs, to the exclusion of anything else.

Devolved authorities and the Scottish Government are also focussing on this area.

We also know we need to seek and secure funding for the important courses we deliver that fall outside those priorities. The critical role of more basic skills training, or the role other subjects play in building confidence, supporting mental health and enticing adults back into education, is not well understood.

We are committed to removing any barriers, so that individuals can improve their own life chances and have a positive impact on their communities and society as a whole. 

We achieve this by working in partnership with over 100 community-based venues and local networks across the UK and with like-minded partners internationally. 

We also engage with those who make education policy and funding decisions across England and Scotland, so they understand the importance of education to our learners – be that getting into work, progressing into good work, or keeping their minds active and their connection with their communities live.