Digital takeover in Wigan

Digital takeover in Wigan

Wigan’s biggest ever digital event will take over Wigan and Leigh town centres next week.



A whole host of workshops and practical demonstrations will take place over the week (Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June) to celebrate the benefits of the internet while helping local residents to get online.



Those hoping to attend one of the workshops are advised to book in advance by ringing Alison Goulding on 01942 827581. Those who arrive on the day without booking beforehand will be allowed in on a ‘first come first serve basis.’ See the full programme




The arrival of the ‘Our Digital Planet Exhibition’ this Saturday 25th May, will kick-start the week-long event. The exhibition will give visitors who have never used the internet or who are not so confident the opportunity to get online with the help of digital experts.



In addition to the exhibition, Wigan Council, with the help of Wigan and Leigh Housing, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, Wigan and Leigh College and Trade Unions, will be providing even more activities to make the event spectacular.



A number of activities will help novices learn the basics, including how to use computers and get online, while Apple and Google workshops will help people to brush up and improve upon their existing skills.



Community stands will provide visitors with information about where they can access computers for free and how they can use online services to look for information such as benefits, equipment and personal services for older people and library services. Visitors will also be able to find out about local IT training courses.



Councillor Chris Ready, portfolio holder for communications at Wigan Council, said:



“The increased availability of devices connected to the internet, such as tablets and mobile phones, are helping us to feel better connected, save money and time.



"The downside of this however is that those who don’t have the skills or equipment can feel left out and excluded from society.



“Our lifestyles are becoming increasingly geared towards a digital age, where we keep in touch with friends and family via social networking sites, apply for a job via email, access help and advice from a website or make payments online. That’s why it’s never been as important to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to make the most out of the internet.



“The events taking place throughout the Our Digital Planet Exhibition are aimed at making sure nobody gets left behind. The activities will cater for everyone’s needs, from those who have never switched on a computer to those who are looking to improve their existing computer skills.



“The exhibition usually travels to major cities such as Liverpool and Glasgow so to have it here in our borough is fantastic news.