NEWSROOM

The event is being held as part of the national Get Online Week campaign (19-25 October), which encourages people to develop the skills they need to make the most of the online world.

The free session, run by Telford & Wrekin Council, will offer friendly, practical support for anyone who would like help using digital devices, accessing online services or improving their digital confidence.

Representatives from Telford Hospital will also be on hand to help residents use the NHS App and access their digital patient portal, while Nationwide Building Society will provide advice and support on safe and secure online banking, as well as raising awareness of frauds and scams.

Councillor Zona Hannington, Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Finance and Resident Services, said:

"Having the skills and confidence to use digital technology can make a real difference to people's everyday lives, helping them stay connected, access important services and manage things more easily online.

"This free drop-in session is a great opportunity for residents to get personalised support in a friendly and welcoming environment. Whether you need help with the NHS App, online banking or simply want to improve your digital skills, there will be experts on hand to help.

"We're committed to ensuring nobody is left behind as more services move online, and I would encourage anyone who would benefit from some extra support to come along and find out what's available."

Get Online Week was launched in 2007 by the Good Things Foundation and is an annual campaign designed to help people improve their digital skills and confidence.

Across Telford and Wrekin, residents can access free public Wi-Fi at Council offices, libraries, community centres and leisure centres. Free-to-use computers are also available at all Borough libraries, as well as community venues including Donnington Hub, Woodside Park Lane Centre, Brookside Central and Leegomery.

Get Online Week will also see the start of two new Tech Made Friendly courses, on Wednesday 21 October at Admaston House Community Centre (10am to 12 noon) and at Ketley Community Centre (2pm to 4pm).

Delivered by AbilityNet and funded by Capgemini, Tech Made Friendly is a free six-session programme for adults aged 18 and over, providing friendly, hands-on support to help people use smartphones, tablets and laptops, access health services, find local information, stay in touch with family and friends, and stay safe online.

In addition to special events such as Get Online Week, Telford & Wrekin Council runs regular digital drop-in sessions every second and fourth Thursday of the month at Wellington Library between 10am and 12 noon.

The Council's digital inclusion programme forms part of a wider commitment to creating a digitally skilled and confident community. By removing barriers to access and providing tailored support, the Council is helping residents live more independently and make the most of the opportunities available online.

For more information about digital support available across the Borough, visit www.telford.gov.uk/telfordonline or call 01952 380000. Residents can get help getting online, borrowing a device or accessing free digital skills training.