As the year draws to a close, Mike, our head of learning, has been reflecting on some of the standout moments that made 2025 so rewarding. It’s been a year filled with new connections, unexpected opportunities, and plenty of reasons to feel proud of the impact we’ve made.
Championing Digital Skills Across GM
One of my biggest projects this year was the Cellnex programme, where we successfully trained 88 Digital Champions and 96 Digital Friends. Delivering the training was genuinely enjoyable, and it gave us much-needed visibility across Greater Manchester. The energy, curiosity, and passion people brought to the sessions reminded me why this work matters so much. You can read our impact report HERE.
Based on sector benchmarks from organisations such as Digital Unite, Good Things Foundation, and Age UK, the average cost of recruiting, training, and supporting a Digital Champion is estimated at around £400 per person. This means our work represents an investment of approximately £74,000 in local digital inclusion capacity.
Each trained champion typically supports 25–35 individuals per year, meaning this network has the potential to help over 5,000 local residents annually. At this rate, the cost per person supported is around £13, demonstrating excellent value for money and a sustainable model for tackling digital exclusion at community level.
Supporting Bluesci and Watching People Grow
Working with Bluesci , a mental health charity in Trafford, to bring in new Digital Champions, both for the existing Coppice session and the brand-new one at Partington funded by WEA, was another major highlight. Additional funding secured by GMCA meant we could invest time in supporting them to really embed digital inclusion in their existing work.
A few moments really stood out:
- Supporting Cassie their new digital inclusion officer, as she stepped into a new role, and seeing her confidence grow week by week until she was ready to take over the Coppice session entirely.
- Watching Chloe in our team absolutely thrive at Coppice. She’s built brilliant relationships with both volunteers and learners, and her work sorting out a donated laptop from the council for Lynda was incredible.
- Hearing Lynda share such lovely feedback with Beth from WEA, last week genuinely made my day. Those moments of appreciation really hit home how valuable these sessions are.
House of Lords… Again!
Another unforgettable experience this year was being invited back to the House of Lords by Good Things Foundation, this time with our very own stand to showcase the work we do. Only a small number of organisations were asked to exhibit, which says a lot about how highly regarded our contribution is within the network.
The event itself was brilliant, great conversations, positive feedback, and of course, trotting around London with Claire trying to get that perfect “candid” photo. (Still not sure we succeeded, but it was fun trying!)
Building Stronger Links With Bolton
Strengthening our relationship with Bolton was another big win. Even though Claire led more on the family hubs work, I loved helping get things moving and hearing such warm, appreciative feedback from Jen. It’s not every day you get a commissioner so openly grateful, and honestly, it meant a lot.
Stockport Success
And finally our flagship programme: 48 new Digital Champions volunteering each week in Stockport this year! A fantastic number and a brilliant testament to the effort and enthusiasm from everyone involved.
2025 was full of achievements, big and small, and moments that reminded me why I love doing what I do. From seeing individuals grow in confidence to strengthening partnerships and showcasing our work nationally, it’s been a year to remember.