Stockport helps more people get online this October

This October, Live Well partners in Stockport are joining forces to promote digital inclusion and help people build confidence with digital technology.

To mark Digitober and Get Online Week (20-26 October), there’s a range of extra DigiKnow support being offered in Stockport during the month both for complete beginners, and help to residents boost digital skills for work, including:

• Free community digital support classes and drop-in sessions for one-on-one help
• Ways to reduce the cost of getting online, from free-to-use public computers and wifi, to free sim cards and low-cost tariffs, device loans or low-cost refurbished devices.

Support forms part of Stockport’s Live Well initiative, making Stockport a great place to live by building stronger communities, providing early help and support closer to home and helping people live happier, healthier lives.

Cllr Dan Oliver, Stockport Council Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Public Protection, said:

“Digital confidence isn’t just about knowing how to use a device – it’s about unlocking opportunities. Whether it’s applying for jobs, accessing health services, or staying in touch with loved ones, being digitally included can help people live happier, healthier lives. This is at the heart of the Live Well approach.“

Starting Point are the Live Well digital inclusion partner, funded by Stockport Council and Stockport Homes, to support learners across the borough through the DigiKnow programme:

• Free digital skills training
• A Device Lending Library – a lifeline for families facing financial hardship
• Free SIM cards for those who need them most
• Access to low-cost refurbished devices, through DigiKnow partner Community Computers

DigiKnow classes and sessions are powered by an incredible team of volunteer Digital Champions, who offer friendly, one-to-one support in welcoming community spaces to grow digital confidence and make everyday digital tasks feel less daunting.

Last week at Starting Point’s class at York Street Community Centre, for example, ten learners came along with a variety of digital challenges, from downloading and storing photos, to formatting documents in Microsoft Word, and completing ID checks on the NHS app. With the help of four Digital Champions, each person left feeling more confident and capable.

Full details on all the support available in Stockport or details of how to become a volunteer Digital Champion can be found on the Stockport Council website..