Today, Claire and Nicola had the pleasure of joining families at Oldhams Family Hub in Bolton for their lively Family Fun Day. Alongside the games including Makey Maket banana piano, activities, and community spirit, it was also a brilliant opportunity to showcase something we’re especially proud of: Digital Families.

For the past six months, we’ve been working with Bolton Libraries to make digital access more inclusive and sustainable across Bolton. And now, we’re excited to say that all eight family hubs in Bolton are equipped with:

Free public access PCs and Wi-Fi

A laptop borrowing service

Support from Bolton Library and Museum Services’ digital champions

Extra help through the Good Things Foundation Databank

This means families can get online more easily, develop digital skills, and feel confident using technology in ways that support learning, work, and everyday life.

We often say that digital inclusion starts young. By helping children, young people, and their families with the basics, whether that’s applying for school places, completing homework online, or accessing essential services, we’re laying the foundation for brighter, more connected futures.

It was also fantastic to share this progress with Cllr Nick Peel, Leader of Bolton Council and also Digital City Region Portfolio Holder for Greater Manchester, who joined us to see first-hand how Bolton is answering the call to fix the digital divide.

The energy and curiosity we saw today remind us why this work matters. When families have the tools and support to thrive online, whole communities grow stronger.