The world we live in is changing rapidly due to the internet and technology and it is easy for people to become isolated. The iConnect digital inclusion project aims to help tenants of Monmouthshire and Melin Housing associations access the many opportunities available online.
Funding of £145,000 by the Community Renewal Fund has enabled the creation of the 6 months project, running until June, and administered by Monmouthshire County Council.
Incredibly, 11% of adults in Wales aren’t online. People are being held back in life because no one has shown them how to use the Internet. iConnect specifically targets the digitally excluded, including older and younger people, economically inactive and long term unemployed, as well as businesses and working families.
Many people may not be making the most of opportunities available online that could help radically improve their lives. Local services are increasingly being provided digitally, and we are passionate about ensuring tenants are equipped with the skills and accessibility to ensure they don’t get left behind.
As well as being able to access public and healthcare services, being digitally included is proven to have a positive impact on health and wellbeing and increased opportunities for social connection with family and friends.
As part of the project, a dedicated experienced Digital Officer has been appointed. Marianne is working within MHA’s communities to help improve accessibility and digital skills, by building tenant’s confidence to work safely and as independently as possible.
Fancy becoming an iConnect Digital Volunteer?
If using email and the internet comes easily to you, you could start an exciting new role as a Digital Volunteer, working with people who don’t have your skills – yet!
If you think you, or someone you know who is an MHA tenant, could benefit from some help to get online or are interested in becoming an iConnect volunteer, then please contact Marianne…
marianne.bowen@monmouthshirehousing.co.uk / 07815 440072
