by Tim Nuttall
A new skills hub offering residents of South East Holderness an opportunity to access IT equipment to expand their digital knowledge is set to launch at Withernsea’s Shores Centre this week.
DASH (Digital Access Skills Hub) is a new community resource available to anyone seeking to develop an entry-level understanding of computer equipment, apps and websites. It is also open to those who are looking to enhance and expand pre-existing digital skills, or who lack access to IT equipment at home.
A weekly timetable of activities has been established to help users at every level develop, learn and thrive in the online world. Among the sessions being offered are Staying Safe Online, Getting the Most Out of Gmail and Microsoft Office 365 for Beginners – an activity that offers support with word processing and document creation.
Jobseekers will be supported with sessions to improve their CVs, alongside introductions to useful platforms such as the National Careers Service and job-search websites including indeed.com and reed.com.
The hub will also serve as a space for self- study, where equipment can be booked for users to access online courses and free learning resources. An Everyday Maths numeracy session, plus support with personal and professional development, will also be available.
An open day to introduce the new skills hub will take place at Shores on Monday, December 4, between 11am and 2pm. During this time, members of the community are invited to learn more about what the hub will offer, as well as put forward their own suggestions about what DASH could facilitate in the future.
Jayne Nendick, Shores CEO, said: “Our free DASH sessions aim to offer a relaxed environment for people of all skills and abilities to access equipment, including tablets, laptops and graphics pads, to help them achieve their goals – whether they are exploring digital devices as a beginner, or they simply need access to equipment that they may not have at home.
“With an increasing amount of our lives spent online, it is important that we help to bridge gaps in knowledge and finances to help everyone have access to the digital skills and technology that they need.
“As part of our initial DASH schedule, we will be helping people learn how to access essential public services, such as the NHS online, which will help them in their everyday lives.”
The project to date has been fully funded by Shores. To help promote sustainability, refurbished IT equipment has been purchased and used to equip the first of two planned digital suites at the centre.
Following Monday’s open day, the DASH resources will be available to book, for users 18 and over, by calling 01964 615190 or by visiting Shores in person in Seaside Road.
