Get Online Week
Published on 15 October 2020 08:41 AM
Get Online Week is 19th - 25th October and we are encouraging Stockport residents to learn how to use the internet. Free virtual events will help people who aren’t very confident using the internet to improve their digital skills and make the most of the internet. And if you don’t have any way of getting online there are free-to-borrow devices and telephone support to help you get started.
The pandemic proved that being able to use the internet is an essential way of staying connected and getting on with everyday life. Being able to video call a loved one, work from home or shop online made all the difference to many. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case for everyone, which is why Get Online Week is more important than ever. If you felt left behind this year because you weren’t sure how to use the internet, or you now need new skills for work, a virtual Get Online Week event can help.
Councillor Kate Butler, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focus and Engagement says: “If you're not online yet, or you’re not very confident at using the internet, now’s the time to get the support you need. In Get Online Week there’s lots of extra free and friendly help to make the most of the internet. Whether you want to learn how to video call, shop safely online or search and apply for jobs, a virtual Get Online Week event can help.”
A full list of virtual Get Online Week events in Stockport is available on our Events calendar.
If you have no way to access the internet, the DigiKnow Device Library offers free to borrow tablets and laptops, many with free data packages. All come with help from Digital Champions to get online and stay safe online. If you'd like to borrow a device, please call the DigiKnow Helpline on 07537 127095.
Councillor Butler continues: “The DigiKnow Device Library was set up to help people who want to do things on the internet but don’t know where to start. If you're not online yet, don’t worry you’re not alone, and it’s easier than you think. Get Online Week is the perfect time to give the DigiKnow Helpline a call and take that first step”.
Throughout the pandemic Stockport Council has been finding ways to continue providing services that reach and support vulnerable people in greatest need. The DigiKnow Device Library and Helpline are two new initiatives introduced by Stockport’s ‘DigiKnow’ Alliance, a network of partners from all sectors who are helping more people in Stockport become confident, independent users of the internet. This Alliance, established by the council in April 2018, has already helped almost 9,000 residents to get online and improve their digital skills.