In Drenthe, more than 45,000 residents struggle with basic skills such as reading, writing, arithmetic, and digital and financial skills. This limits their opportunities for work and participation in society and affects their health. The Province of Drenthe is therefore investing in the Strengthening Basic Skills in Drenthe program, an initiative of the Alliance for a Literate Drenthe and the Resilient Living coalition of the Healthy Marke.
It is estimated that 20,000 to 30,000 people within the workforce are affected. For this group, the current help offerings are often difficult to find. Assistance with basic skills is fragmented across various initiatives, such as Language Houses, welfare organizations, the Alliance of Strength, and Regional Deals. A joint course is missing, causing residents and professionals to lose overview.
With the program, the initiators aim for one recognizable Drenthe approach. The subsidy from the Province of Drenthe (€81,911) and from the Healthy Marke (€50,000) makes it possible to appoint a program manager through the welfare organization Andes. This manager maps the existing offerings, connects organizations, and works on a joint strategy.
In the first half year, the focus is on exploring and connecting. The program manager talks with residents, municipalities, employers, education, and welfare to clarify what is needed. Awareness among employers is also targeted, because many people with limited basic skills work on the work floor. The program builds on what already exists and expands what works well. Experiences from other regions are also included. The outcomes form the basis for a multi-year program plan. Progress and results are monitored via the Low Literacy Monitor of Trendbureau Drenthe.
Investing in basic skills has already proven effective in multiple studies, such as those by Maurice de Greef and monitoring by Trendbureau Drenthe. Ninety-three percent of participants improve in one or more life areas, such as work or health. Additionally, the program fits within the Social Agenda and the Economic Course of the Province of Drenthe and contributes to a socially and economically stronger Drenthe.