Digital skills training for Over 65s in Telford and Wrekin

Over 65s in Telford and Wrekin will have the opportunity to expand their digital skills thanks to a new programme offered by the council. 

The ‘Get Connected’ training courses will be offered in partnership with STAY, a housing and support services charity and will teach attendees about essential digital skills as well as offering a chance to socialise.

Cllr Rae Evans, Cabinet Member for Finance, Governance and Customer Services for Telford and Wrekin Council, said: ‘Not everyone has grown up with, or is comfortable with the technology that many of us take for granted, such as email and the internet. 

‘As more and more services move online, it’s important that people have the skills and confidence to access them safely, and benefit from the advantages the internet brings, such as online shopping, quicker and cheaper communication, such as video calling, all of which can make such a positive difference to your life!’ 

Funding for the free six-week courses comes through the council’s £28m ‘On Your Side’ investment programme. 

Topics covered by the six two hour sessions will include how to use emails, safely shopping online and using the internet to keep in touch with family and friends with attendees encouraged to bring their own device or contact the organisers about obtaining one. 

Gavin Phillips, the Digital Inclusion Coordinator at STAY Telford, said: ‘Digital inclusion is becoming increasingly important for the well-being, empowerment and equal opportunities of individuals and communities, it is now crucial for the overall growth and development of a society.’ 

Many councils across the country are now offering free course to help vulnerable and older people obtain the digital skills they need to stay in touch and use many vital resources with Brent recently opening a ‘digital skills hub’ to help residents in the area. 

Courses start in February at the Hub on the Hill in Sutton Hill and Wellington Civic and Leisure Centre, you can book on a course by calling 01952 380000 or by clicking here.

Photo by Beth Macdonald