WITH an estimated 49 per cent of adults in the South East lacking basic literacy skills, learndirect, the e-learning network, is urging people to take action on International Literacy Day (Wednesday September 8).

In the most recent International Adult Literacy Survey, which compares literacy standards across 23 countries, Britain came bottom of the 'literacy' league, way behind France and Germany.

Low literacy levels impact heavily on people's lives, according to the survey. People with inadequate literacy skills earn up to 11 per cent less than others and struggle with everyday tasks such as filling in a form.

People in the South East have begun to take some great steps towards tackling the problem. For example, more than 800 Certificates in Adult Literacy have been awarded in the South East through learndirect since January this year. However, more needs to be done to address the problem.

Tracey Ansell, head of Ufi, South East, said: "Whilst our latest figures are

encouraging, we still have a long way to go in order to catch up with our European counterparts.

"People lacking basic literacy skills are losing out in a number of ways and learndirect is urging people to take action to help them get ahead in life. We are hoping International Literacy Day will motivate adults to get learning".

The National Certificate in Adult Literacy is on offer in more than 75 learndirect centres across the South East and is a recognised qualification available up to the same skills level as a GCSE.

As well as the certificate, these learndirect centres also offer flexible computer based courses to help people brush up their reading and writing skills. People can learn at their own pace, and at a time to suit them, in a relaxed and supportive environment.

To mark International Literacy Day, staff and tutors will be on hand at learndirect centres to help people assess their current literacy skills, as well as to help them prepare for, practise and take a test for a Certificate in Adult Literacy.

Literacy affects us all in everyday life and the literacy tests are designed to reflect this, covering everyday word skills such as reading and understanding texts, in addition to spelling, grammar and punctuation.

Julia String, Deputy Director, of the National Literary Trust says: "It's encouraging that real progress is being made in helping more adults to become confident readers and writers. We hope that learndirect's initiative will encourage greater numbers of adults to improve their literacy skills."

The Certificates in Adult Literacy can be gained in four easy steps:

1 Take a skills assessment at your local learndirect centre

2 Brush up the skills you need to with a choice of short learndirect courses

3 Take a 'Preparing For Testing' course

4 Take a FREE short test, and when you pass you'll get a Certificate in Adult Literacy - available up to the same skills level as a GCSE. Many people prefer to take the test on a computer, as you can answer all the

questions with just the touch of a button.

For more information or to find your nearest learndirect centre call 08080 200 800.