Pendle Borough Council is launching a series of face-to-face support sessions to help residents struggling with accessing local services due to online barriers.

The free sessions - aimed at helping Pendle residents build confidence when using their computers, smartphones and the internet - will offer practical help with everyday tasks.
This includes accessing Pendle Borough Council services, completing online forms, job searching, managing online accounts, staying safe online and using online health services such as booking GP appointments and using the NHS App. 
Pendle Borough Council is working with several local partner organisations, including the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Citizens Advice East Lancashire, Lancashire Adult Learning, Christians Against Poverty and Carers Link Lancashire, to deliver the sessions.

The informal meetings have been planned to take place at numerous locations across the borough over the next 12 months, with the first one scheduled to take place on 14 May at Colne Open Door Centre.
 
Dean Langton, Pendle Borough Council’s Chief Executive, said: “We recognise using the internet can be daunting for some people and that’s why we have created these support sessions with the help of Government funding.
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“They will provide friendly, one-to-one guidance in a supportive environment. 

“Residents are asked to bring their own device, such as a smartphone, tablet or laptop, if they have one, so support can be tailored to help them learn how to use the technology they already own and achieve their own online goals.

“For residents who do not have their own device, laptops will be available on the day, and everyone is welcome.

“There is no need to book – just turn up!”

For further information, dates and venues, visit www.pendle.gov.uk/communitysupporthub or look out for posters in your local community.