FREE TO USE PUBLIC COMPUTERS AND FACE TO FACE HELP GETTING ONLINE

9 Dec 2020 02:19
Published by: Scott Callan

Stockport residents can now access the free to use public computers at Fred Perry House reception, as well as at 8 Stockport libraries, for essential activities such as job search, applying for benefits or accessing advice. In a further boost for people who need support getting online for the first time, Starting Point’s ‘DigiKnow’ face to face classes are starting again at York Street.

All venues provide a COVID secure environment and numbers are limited for the protection of staff and residents. Public computers at Fred Perry House reception and places in the DigiKnow classes must be pre-booked and customers should support social distancing measures and wear a face covering at all venues, unless exempt.

• To book a 1-hour slot on a public computer at Fred Perry House Reception, telephone the contact centre on 0161 217 6009. (Slots available 10am to 4pm Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 10am to 12pm Wednesday and Thursday.)
• Bramhall, Brinnington, Cheadle, Edgeley, Hazel Grove, the Heatons, Marple and Reddish libraries (also Bredbury from 16th December) are open for book browsing and free access to the PCs and internet access, although pre-booking is advised to avoid disappointment. To book a slot call 0161 217 6009 or email libraries@stockport.gov.uk.
• To book a place in a DigiKnow class at York Street, call the DigiKnow Helpline on 07537 127095.

Councillor Kate Butler, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focus and Engagement says: “We’re doing all we can to reinstate regular services during these challenging times and this increase in the availability of public computers is great news for residents. We’re all relying on digital resources more and more in the current climate and it’s vitally important that everyone has both access to the internet and the skills to use it. Although support has been available by phone and video call from Digital Champions throughout the pandemic, I’m delighted to see face to face DigiKnow classes starting again, giving residents more ways to find the help they need to get online.”

Stockport’s ‘DigiKnow’ movement is an alliance of local groups and organisations from all sectors who are committed to helping Stockport residents to get online and improve their digital skills. During the pandemic, while libraries and community groups were unavailable, a DigiKnow Helpline was set up offering telephone support for anyone who has access to a?smartphone, tablet or computer, but needs help getting online for the first time or doing things online. For residents with 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. For support getting online, or if you'd like to borrow a device, please call the DigiKnow Helpline on 07537 127095.

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