New scheme urges Wirral residents to get online (From Wirral Globe)

New scheme urges Wirral residents to get online

2:46pm Tuesday 30th October 2012 in News

WIRRAL residents are being urged to get involved in a new scheme to boost the number of internet users.

Leasowe Library is set to host a series of special computer taster sessions from October 31 until November 7 in a bid to provide basic IT skills to local people.

The event is part of a nationwide scheme to tackle “digital exclusion” and to teach people the skills they need to access online information about benefits, health and jobs.

Wirral Council leader Cllr Phil Davies said: “We are seeing huge changes in the way people access information about benefits, job opportunities and Council services, and if we are not careful some people face being left behind.

“The Go On Wirral campaign aims to increase understanding around computers and IT, and is focused on the significant number of people in Wirral who have never accessed the internet. It is a great example of unity in the community – people pulling together to reach out to the most vulnerable in our society.”

Jenni Jones, training development manager at Leasowe Development Trust said: “This taster course is designed to break down barriers to using digital systems and we hope that these courses will lead to a greater awareness and understanding as well as a starting point for further digital learning.”

To book a place, contact Jenni Jones by telephone on 0151 638 9599 or by email at jenni@leasowedt.org.uk. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

More information about taking part by becoming a ‘digital champion’ for Go-On Wirral can be found online at www.wirral.gov.uk/go-onwirral