Our News Archive

Housing associations join forces to get Warrington residents online

A new scheme will help local people access the internet, learn new skills and access services online has been launched in Warrington.


 ‘Go On, Live On’ is six-week pilot of free drop in sessions at Padgate Library, for people who want to learn and improve their IT skills, and get online.


At the sessions, which will run every Monday and Tuesday until October 12, Warrington residents will be able to pop in at any time and receive one-to-one support from the team.

‘Go on, Live On’ is a partnership scheme involving Muir Group Housing Association, Golden Gates Housing Trust, Affinity Sutton, Fearnhead Community Centre, Live Wire (Padgate Library), Future Tech, Warrington Voluntary Action, Warrington Borough Council, Barclays Digital Eagles and Go On UK.

The pilot has been launched as part of Muir’s drive to tackle digital exclusion by getting more Warrington residents online.

 “The Get On, Live On’ initiative is designed to help give people the confidence to use a computer and get online,” said Beverly Price, Muir’s Social Inclusion Coordinator

“Regardless of their age, where they live or what they do, it aims to break down the barriers to learning, strengthen community relations and help residents become more digitally included.

“Being able to use the internet will not only open up a whole new world, it has been shown that savings of up to £800 a year can be made through conducting day to day business online rather than in person."

As well as offering people the opportunity to brush up on their IT skills, the sessions will also aim to raise awareness of the benefits of accessing services online.

The project also focuses on how people can save money, improve their health and fitness, reduce loneliness and isolation, as well as boosting employment opportunities.

‘Get On, Live On’ also aims to create volunteer opportunities for local people. IT students from Future Tech will be on hand to help people who attend these sessions. Local residents have also been recruited as ‘Digital Champions’ – and will be on hand to offer their support.

Vikki Jones, Regeneration Officer with Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT) said:

“GGHT are pleased to be able to back this initiative, which supports our aims and those of our partners across Warrington in helping our residents to get online. 

“We recognise the huge difference that online access and digital skills can make for people, whether it is helping them to access vital services, save money or find work. Being online is also a great way for people to keep in touch with friends and family or develop new hobbies. We look forward to welcoming local residents to our events over the coming weeks.”

For further information about ‘Go On, Live On’, pop into Padgate Library, or call 01925 818096.