Grant to help people get web wise

Friday 20th April 2012

Disadvantaged adults will be helped to get online after charity Back On Track won funding from UK Online.

The charity received £7,500 to help people who struggle to access computers for everyday tasks due to lack of confidence, knowledge or equipment.

Now it will work with clients, including recovering addicts and former homeless people, to help them become web wise.

David Fisher, chief executive of Back On Track, said: "Many of our clients simply don't have access to a computer at home and don't possess the skills or the confidence to use email or access online public services many of us now take for granted. Giving them the confidence to get online can really make the difference in opening doors for them."

Back On Track will use the grant to target adults who are not already online to provide them with extra tuition and support in using email and the internet.

Once comfortable in using computers and online, service users will be encouraged to use websites such as Next Step and Adult Directions to help them find work.

The Manchester-based learning and skills charity provides education classes, positive activities and one-to-one guidance and support to help adults with multiple barriers to education and employment get back on their feet.

UK Online is a social enterprise aiming to inspire people to get online, supporting them to gain the skills needed to use the internet and to take advantage of online public services.

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