Lincs Digital leading the way to unlocking Digital Skills across South and East Lincolnshire

Residents of South and East Lincolnshire are being given a unique opportunity to enhance their digital skills through a series of community events and learning sessions organised by Lincs Digital, a local charity based in Horncastle in partnership with SELCP Healthy Living Team. These events, designed to cater to the diverse needs of the community, are taking place at various community hubs across Boston Borough, East Lindsey and South Holland, funded through UK Shared Prosperity Funding.

Lincs Digital, established by a group of passionate individuals from Adult Learning, Health, and Community sectors, was born out of a concern that the reduction in formal Adult Education funding would leave many residents without access to essential learning opportunities. Today, the charity is dedicated to ensuring that no one in the community is left behind in the digital age.

The charity offers a range of support sessions at community venues across Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland. These sessions are tailored to provide residents with the skills needed to navigate the digital world effectively. Whether it's mastering the use of tablets, iPads, smartphones, laptops, or chromebooks, or just getting to grips with general internet use, these sessions have something for everyone.

Residents can also receive assistance with accessing online services such as council resources, blue badge applications, NHS/GP services, online banking, and housing services. The sessions operate on a drop-in basis, allowing participants to get the help they need, when they need it.

Ann Avison, Project Manager for Lincs Digital, said: "The ability to use digital devices and access online services is an important part of everyday life, and we want to make sure the residents of Lincolnshire, especially those in small rural communities, are not left behind.

"We continue to fight for Lincolnshire and bring national projects to local venues. Recent times have proven that online services are now an essential requirement, enabling us to keep in touch with one another, order shopping, and manage health supplies."

Ann also highlighted the charity's success in helping many individuals and groups learn these essential skills prior to the lockdown period. "We are pleased to have supported so many before the pandemic, and we anticipate that even more people will now realise the importance of these skills and seek assistance as we return to normal activities. We are also providing ongoing support via phone, email, and video calls, ensuring our groups continue to receive help beyond the learning sessions."

Lincs Digital invites all residents of Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland to participate in these valuable sessions and take a step towards becoming more digitally savvy. With all necessary equipment provided, including laptops, iPads, tablets, and more, participants can look forward to a supportive and enriching learning experience.

Cllr Cresswell, Portfolio Holder for Communities (People) at Boston Borough Council, Cllr Sarah Devereux, Portfolio Holder for Partnerships at East Lindsey District Council and Cllr Elizabeth Sneath, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing and Conservation and Heritage at South Holland District Council, jointly said: "We are incredibly proud of the work that Lincs Digital is doing to empower our residents with essential digital skills. In today's world, the ability to navigate online services is no longer a luxury - it's a necessity. The dedication shown by the Lincs Digital team in bringing these vital resources to our local communities is truly commendable. Initiatives like these not only bridge the digital divide but also strengthen our community by ensuring everyone has the tools they need to stay connected and informed."

Cllr William Gray, Chair of South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership Healthy Living Board, added: "Digital inclusion is an important part of the wider work of our Healthy Living team to help reduce inequality and help people live happy, fulfilled lives."

For more information on session dates and venues, or to explore online course options, please contact Lincs Digital or visit their website at https://lincsdigital.org.uk/