Get On, Live On

Digital Inclusion project goes from strength to strength

A new scheme will help local people access the internet, learn new skills has been given the thumbs up by residents.

‘Get On, Live On’  started off as a six-week pilot, offering free drop in sessions at Padgate Library for people who want to learn and improve their IT skills, and get online.

Warrington residents were able to get one-on-one support for all their digital needs. The sessions will also succeeded in raising awareness of the benefits of accessing services online. 

It proved to be a huge success, with over 60 people popping into the library to use the service. The service has now been extended include the Warrington Central and Birchwood Libraries.

‘Get 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), Warrington Future Tech, Warrington Voluntary Action, Warrington Borough Council, Barclays Digital Eagles, Go On UK, and UK Online centres.

 

 “The Get On, Live On’ initiative was 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."



‘Get On, Live On’ also created 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.

The success of the initiative has inspired Bev to set up something similar for our Winsford residents. Muir has teamed up with GGO West Winsford and Weaver Vale Housing Trust to offer FREE get online drop in sessions at Winsford Library on Wednesday and Friday mornings.