Winchester residents set to benefit from skills programme

The Essential Digital Skills development programme, launched by Winchester City Council, aims to improve the digital skills of residents across the district.

The initiative, which starts on Monday, October 7, will address the issue of digital exclusion and is designed to assist residents of all ages and backgrounds.

The programme will help individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, boost confidence, and provide support in developing essential digital skills.

This includes aiding older generations in connecting with the digital age, and improving access to education, employment, and volunteering opportunities for all residents.

The initiative launches on Monday, October 7, and is designed to address digital exclusion (Image: Supplied)

The programme will also assist in transitioning into higher-quality jobs and further training opportunities within the district.

The initiative comes as figures show that 18 per cent of UK adults 'lack the essential digital skills needed for the workplace', and 22 per cent of people in the UK 'do not have the essential digital skills needed for everyday life'.

The project is being delivered in partnership with Hampshire-based digital training specialists, WorkAdvisor Ltd.

They offer tailored one-to-one sessions, workshops, and Microsoft Office-accredited courses.

Residents taking part will use refurbished laptops to build the confidence they need to better understand digital platforms.

The Essential Digital Skills development programme has received £50,000 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Councillor Lucille Thompson, Winchester City Council’s cabinet member for business and culture, said: "Research tells us that the Winchester district suffers from the digital divide and digital poverty just as much as other parts of the country.

"The Essential Digital Skills development programme is a great initiative that tackles the root causes of digital exclusion and will help our residents to get online safely and securely."

Philip Price, director of WorkAdvisor Ltd, said: "We will be in the community delivering this development programme until the end of January 2025.

"District residents will gain experience in the basics, for example, how to use a laptop, set up and use email as well as a range of useful everyday applications including managing health, shopping, banking and paying bills.

"Residents will experience how to search and apply for jobs, as well as some fun things.

"There will be the opportunity for free progression courses and self-paced learning for all."