Funded by
Do you live in Dudley, aged 19+ and require support to get online, learn new skills (*eligibility applies*)
Residents of Dudley and the surrounding areas encounter significant barriers in accessing devices, internet connectivity, and digital skills. The Digital Divide project, funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), is dedicated to addressing these challenges. In collaboration with the Refugee and Migrant Centre, JST delivers this project to Dudley residents, bridging gaps, providing learning opportunities, and seeking solutions for those in need.
We actively engage with the local community and utilise a range of accessible spaces to deliver the project. Our experienced, non-judgmental staff provide consistent one-to-one or small group weekly support, enabling eligible individuals to achieve learning and progression outcomes. They build trust and rapport while addressing immediate digital needs and ensuring access to essential services, including benefits, housing, food, travel, and data.
Our digital activities and learning opportunities are designed with the community in mind. By bridging current gaps in digital access and learning, we ensure that residents have access to essential online services and opportunities to progress to further accredited training and employment.
*You must be over 19 years old and legally able to reside and work in the UK, live in a West Midlands postcode area, and not currently working towards or hold a Level 1 or above qualification in ICT*
Activities Available:
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Digital Navigation:
Comprehensive coaching on basic device usage, including laptops and phones, internet navigation, online safety, and the installation of digital tools and applications.
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Email Management:
Assistance with setting up email accounts, composing and sending emails, attaching documents, and managing incoming emails.
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Benefits Claims:
Guidance on initiating new claims, accessing universal credit online, maintaining journals, and managing Government Gateway accounts.
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NHS/Health Apps:
Support in confidently using and managing NHS or other health-related applications for ordering prescriptions, viewing medical history, and booking appointments.
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Progression:
Boosting your confidence with employment related support, such as writing CVs, cover letters, completing application forms, job searching, and getting you ready to start work.
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Access to Data and IT Equipment:
Collaboration with local organisations to provide access to data and occasionally IT equipment.
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Essential Online Services:
Tailored support for housing, benefits, and other essential online applications based on individual needs.
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English for Speakers of Other Languages
Delivered in partnership with the Refugee and Migrant Centre, featuring qualified ESOL and digital skills tutors.
Advocate
We are able to speak up for individuals and act on their behalf and them in a range of complex situations such as benefit assessments , appeals, with debt agencies, social services, housing.
Mentor
We provide support over a period of time to help and guide people through difficult situations, to overcome issues and barriers and change their lives for the better.
Support
We provide individual support for people facing a range of issues. Working 1-2-1 we work with people to identify and address their main barriers, develop coping skills, improve confidence and well being
Empower
Whilst working with people to address their issues and barriers we actively support them to become stronger, more confident and gain control over their own lives.