Housing Associations’ digital inclusion project extends across Warrington
A pilot that sets out to get people online is to be extended following a successful trial.
‘Get On, Live On’ was set up at Padgate library to help local people access the internet, learn new skills and access services online.
Following a successful six-week trial which saw over 60 people use the service, the ‘Get On, Live On’ model developed by Muir Group Housing Association and Golden Gates Housing Trust will now be extended to include both Warrington Central and Birchwood Library.
To celebrate the scheme’s success, the Mayor of Warrington, Cllr Geoff Settle, attended a special event at the library, by the two Housing Associations, together with the ‘Get On, Live On’ partnership, to raise awareness about the benefits of using the internet .
It is estimated that over 10.5 million people* in the UK currently do not have ‘digital skills’. During the ‘Get On, Live On’ sessions, Warrington residents have been able to pop in at any time.
‘Get On Live On’ introduces people to the wonders of the internet and teaches them how to use it effectively, through one to one support or through the ‘Learn My Way’ e-learning modules provided by UK Online centres. Support has also been provided to demonstrate how to use equipment and solve technical issues..
The event also highlighted ‘Get Online week’ an initiative founded by ‘UK Online Centres’, and marked the launch of Go On Warrington, the new website and online resource for local residents.
‘Get On, Live On’ is a partnership scheme involving Muir Group Housing Association, Golden Gates Housing Trust, Affinity Sutton, Fearnhead Community Centre, LiveWire, Warrington Future Tech, Warrington Voluntary Action, Warrington Borough Council, Barclays Digital Eagles, Go On UK, and UK Online centres..
Beverly Price, Social Inclusion Coordinator for Muir said:
“The scheme has been a real success; we are helping around 11 people per day to improve their life opportunities and to build skills and confidence in using on line services. People have come to us for a variety of reasons, from wanting to sign up for a social media account, moving home, registering for benefits, learning internet banking, on line safety, and online shopping to name a few..
“I’m delighted that this pilot is being extended. It is another example of how partnership working can make a real difference to people’s lives here in Warrington.”
Roy Smith, the Chair of Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT) said:
“GGHT recognises the important role that digital skills and access can have in connecting people with opportunities including employment, education, health care, benefits and cultural and social experiences.
“By being involved in the ‘Get On, Live On’ initiative, we are able to deliver on our aims and those of our partners across Warrington in helping residents to get online.
“Over the last few weeks we have been able to make a real difference by providing advice and support to give individuals confidence and skills using the internet, making a lasting change to their lives.”
Tina Redford, LiveWire’s Strategic Lead for Libraries and Learning, said:
“LiveWire was delighted to be chosen to be part of the BT and Barclays initiative which will provide residents with the necessary tools to get ahead in today’s digital world. With more and more services moving online, we recognise the importance of digital skills to our communities and are proud to offer this hands-on support in partnership with housing providers across Warrington.”
*Figure from Go On Line UK