Get Oldham Working secures funding to tackle digital exclusion across Oldham

The programme is aimed at improving essential digital skills and access to technology for residents across the borough.

The funding represents a significant investment in addressing digital exclusion in Oldham at a time when digital access is increasingly vital for employment, health, education and public services.

The programme aligns strongly with Oldham Council’s commitment to making Oldham one of the most digitally inclusive towns in the UK.

The GOW Digital programme will deliver a community-led approach to digital inclusion, focused on improving access, skills and confidence across Oldham.

The project will create two Digital Inclusion Hubs at the Get Oldham Working offices, alongside a Mobile Digital Hub.

The Mobile Digital Hub will travel across the borough and cover venues including Access Oldham, SAWN, Millennium Centre, Fatima Women’s Association, Werneth and Freehold Community Development (WFCD), and Oasis Academy.

Through the new digital workshops, residents will build essential skills and confidence, with more than 400 laptops issued to participants on completion of agreed learning activity to encourage responsible use and sustained engagement.

The programme will also train residents to become Digital Champions, each receiving one of 30 tablets upon completing their training.

The Champions will volunteer within computer-based sessions and community delivery, providing support in their own neighbourhoods and strengthening provision across both hubs and the mobile offer.

New Digital Café drop-in sessions will provide informal support, helping residents access online services, improve employability and participate fully in digital life, creating a community-led model with a long-term impact for Oldham.

Councillor Abdul Jabbar, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Value for Money and Sustainability, said:

“Not having access to digital services has a day-to-day impact — from health and education to work and managing finances — and we’re proud to be investing this funding to support our residents.

“GOW Digital is about more than devices; it’s about building confidence, independence and opportunity.

“By working directly in our communities, through our hubs and mobile offer, we can reach residents where they are and provide the practical support they need to thrive in a digital world.”

Residents who would like support, or who are interested in becoming a Digital Champion, can contact the Get Oldham Working team or speak to staff at participating community venues to find out more about upcoming workshops and drop-in sessions.

GOW Digital supports the national digital inclusion agenda led by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, including the Essential Digital Skills framework and the wider push for local authorities to strengthen digital capability through community-based initiatives.

Residents can get in touch with the Get Oldham Working team by emailing [email protected] or call 0161 770 4674.

Digital Inclusion Hubs are located at FCHO Building, 22 Union Street, Oldham OL1 1BE, and Level 8, GOW Spindles Management Suite, Oldham OL1 1HD.