Cambridge Online is delighted to announce that it has secured £36k of funding to help promote digital inclusion in Fenland.
The scheme is being sponsored by DSIT (Department for Science, Innovation and Trade), as part of a nationwide initiative where 80 innovative digital skills and support schemes received government funding to help the most vulnerable in communities get online with confidence.
People in every region of the country will benefit, from disadvantaged young people to elderly people and the homeless, through an expanded fund as part of the government’s push to close the digital divide. These are community-led initiatives to get people the skills and access to devices they need — delivering national renewal by boosting employment opportunities, saving people money, improving health and making life easier.
As part of the project, Cambridge Online will help create at least 5 digital hubs across the region, offering free support to local citizens. Sessions are already being delivered in Wisbech, Ramsey, Whittlesey, March, Chatteris and Ely — and other locations are constantly being assessed, including residential homes. The latest locations and timings can be found on the Cambridge Online website.
Marcus Whewell, the Charity’s CEO commented: “We feel very fortunate to be awarded this money, but we also recognise the responsibility to use this as effectively as possible. This is a great opportunity to help a region that has significant issues around income deprivation, education, health, and digital exclusion — and this funding will make a real difference to people’s lives.
The early response from the community has been amazing, and we have already started working with local groups across Fenland to reach out to those most in need.”
The charity’s success was recently featured on ITV regional news.
About Cambridge Online
Cambridge Online helps over 2,000 individuals a year from across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to access online services safely and confidently. Training and support is provided at over 20 community centres and public spaces, with live details readily available via its website. The charity’s services are free and open to all.
Cambridge Online (in partnership with Sustainable Tech 4 Good) also collects and refurbishes laptops, tablets and mobile phones for gifting to the public and needy individuals. Anyone wishing to apply for a device can visit its website page and make an application.