Guest article – Groundwork North Wales
What is Get Online Week?
It is the UK’s largest and longest-running digital inclusion campaign, run every year by the Good Things Foundation. This year it is taking place from Monday 14 to Sunday 20 October, 2024.
Wondering what digital inclusion means?
Basically, it’s about making sure the benefits of the internet and digital technologies are available to everyone.
Chances are, if you’re reading this article then you’re pretty confident in using technology and may not often think about how easily you can access and navigate online information.
There are a few different reasons why someone may be digitally excluded – and it doesn’t just mean people who don’t go online at all.
The main reasons someone might be missing out are:
Connectivity
To be able to get online in the first place someone needs internet connection and a digital device (such as laptop or smartphone). These are things not everyone can afford, or access due to location.
Accessibility
Services need to be designed to meet all users’ needs, including those who depend on assistive technology to access digital services (for example, some people may use a screen reader to read out the information on a webpage).
Services need to be set up correctly so these technologies can work effectively.
Digital skills
According to the Good Things Foundation there are 8.5 million people in the UK today who lack basic digital skills to use technology and the internet.
Others may be online but are ‘limited’ users of the internet. Without support, people are being left behind in an increasingly digital world.
What are the events happening in Wrexham for Get Online Week 2024?
There are two free events planned, aimed at helping people with their digital skills.
The informative and fun events will provide digital advice and activities for those who are nervous or not too confident with technology.
Activities will include:
- Digital Disco (looking at apps such as Spotify – how to create a login and playlists)
- Digital Detective Quiz (researching various topics using search engines)
- AI vs Real (looking at images and seeing which is real and what has been created by AI)
The events are taking place at:
- The Wellbeing Hub (31 Chester Street, LL13 8BG) from 10am to 12pm on Tuesday October 15
- Gwersyllt Community Resource Centre (Second Avenue, LL11 4ED) from 1pm to 3pm on Tuesday October 15
Both sessions are being provided by the charity Groundwork North Wales.
Louise Stokes, Head of Training said “We are excited to be part of Get Online Week 2024. Digital skills are key in today’s world, whether it’s for accessing vital services, applying for jobs, or staying in touch with family. By working with the Good Things Foundation, we hope to empower even more people with digital knowledge and skills.”
Spread the word
If you know someone who these sessions could be useful for let them know!
Or, if you can use digital devices yourself but want to learn more and gain confidence in using them then come along!
If you know someone who lives elsewhere in the UK who might benefit from digital support you can also check the Good Things Foundation event map to see if there is an event near them.
You might also like to read: Royal Welch Fusiliers Fest at Hightown Barracks – October 12
