Get online for internet first steps at free Digital Derbyshire events

Posted on October 09 2013

People who are nervous about using the internet are being supported to get on line for the first time during a week-long campaign.

Derbyshire County Council’s Digital Derbyshire team is staging four First Steps Online sessions during national Get Online Week 2013, at:

Ashbourne Library – Monday, 14 October, 1pm to 4pm
Swadlincote Library – Tuesday, 15 October, 10.30am to 2pm
Clay Cross Library – Thursday, 17 October, 9.30am to 12pm
Chesterfield Library – Thursday, 17 October, 1.30pm to 5pm
Bolsover Library – Friday, 18 October, 9am to 12pm
Clowne Library – Friday, 18 October, 2pm to 5pm

Visitors to the free drop-in sessions will be supported to learn internet basics so that they can use it to do everyday tasks like shopping, banking, paying bills, and keeping in touch with friends.

Councillor Joan Dixon, DCC’s Cabinet Member for Jobs, Economy and Transport, said:

“These drop in sessions offer a great opportunity for anyone who hasn’t previously used the internet, or has but wants to expand their skills, to get support in a relaxed setting.

“We’re working alongside BT on the Digital Derbyshire programme which will make a real difference to the lives of residents and businesses across the county.

“It’s an exciting development which will put in place infrastructure to deliver fast and reliable broadband for work and entertainment.

“We want as many people as possible to be able to feel the benefit by getting online and will be running more and more support sessions. The idea is that people will share what they learn with others and spread the word. Giving an hour of your time to help someone understand how to use the internet can make a huge difference to their lives.”

DCC’s Digital Derbyshire team is encouraging people to spread the word and use national Get Online Week 2013 as a spur to help people use the internet to explore their hobbies and interests, or support them to connect with family and friends using Skype and social media.

People needing support with this can contact our Digital Derbyshire team by emailing .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or calling 01629 538246.