At Starting Point, we know that digital inclusion isn’t just about skills — it’s about people, confidence, and connection. That’s why partnerships with local community organisations, like BlueSci in Trafford, are so vital. They provide trusted spaces where people already feel comfortable dropping in for a coffee, a chat, or a class. Often, people don’t even realise they need digital support until they happen to be in the room. That’s where our volunteers and staff step in.
Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve seen first-hand how powerful this approach can be:
Last week, twelve learners joined us at Coppice Library, supported by three of our brilliant Digital Champions. Three of them were new attendees who had only heard about the class through the library — proof that word of mouth in trusted spaces really works.
- One learner brought in his new Android phone. With a bit of patient guidance from digital champion Jim, he left with his phone set up and ready to use.
- Doreen and Arthur wanted to connect to the internet; once online, Arthur was keen to take the next step and learn how to send emails. Digital Champion John sat alongside him until he was confident.
- Others wanted help with the small but important things, like looking things up online or even changing their ringtones.
These may sound like little things, but they make a huge difference to daily life and independence.
- Rosa needed help connecting her phone to CarPlay and learning to navigate it safely.
- Another learner had received a medical questionnaire by email. He wasn’t sure how to complete it and send it back as an attachment — something John supported him with step by step.
- Starting Point staff worked with another learner on connecting to the printer and adjusting document sizes so his files printed correctly.
Why It Matters
These stories show the breadth of digital support people need — from the practical (setting up a phone, filling out medical forms) to the personal (choosing the right ringtone). We call it issue led learning. Fixing the immediate concern and building from there.
The stories also highlight why working in partnership with local community and voluntary sector organisations is so important and should be supported and invested in.
Places like BlueSci s aren’t just venues; they’re trusted, welcoming spaces where people naturally gather. By bringing digital support into these environments, we’re reaching people who might never sign up for a formal IT course — people who often don’t know they need help until the moment they ask.
And when they do, digital champions and staff are there to help — patiently, practically, and without judgement.
Because digital inclusion isn’t just about technology. It’s about people feeling connected, capable, and confident in today’s world. BlueSci have a weekly session every Friday morning at Coppice Library with a new one due to start at Partington Library soon.