Let's get digital
We are on a new digital journey to make sure no child or adult is left behind.
Not only will you have seen the latest set of laptops we received from FurbdIT which allows us to continue our support for the young people we work with, but we’re also partnering with a new IT company called ADNS, to ensure our equipment, processes and ideas are up to scratch for a new digital generation.
As part of this, we recently passed our Cyber Essentials accreditations which means we are equipped to support people with getting online, being safe and continuing their learning, so we can start to bridge that digital gap in East Middlesbrough.
We understand technology is embedded in our everyday activities, but not everyone feels comfortable online, or has the skills to navigate it safely and effectively. Some of the young people we work with don’t have access to technology at home, which can make it difficult for them to keep up, not only with their schoolwork, but even their peers whose conversations and activities all revolve around information or actions online.
We know the positive impact that community activities such as youth groups, art classes and sports activities, can have on the mental and physical health of people, but not everyone’s safe space is face to face. We find this means people feel isolated or let down by community services. We want to welcome this new era by opening up the opportunities to engage in digital activities in a community space and with other people.
We’ve started with our podcast and video equipment which we’ve embedded into our youth programmes to give the young people a chance to learn about new tools, find creative ways to use them and push the boundaries on what they create as a result. Having access to devices outside of school or home where people can safely but independently learn how to navigate software, systems and devices in their own way, is essential to building a resilient and digital proofed future generation.
Not only do we hope this supports a whole new group of young people to find their passions as they grow and learn. We also hope access to equipment and activities like this will encourage adults to get involved too, as they see what is possible and learn from each other. Peer mentoring is a great way to remove vulnerability and connect people better, so they feel free to learn new things. Age should not be a barrier to positive experiences, so we do all we can to help people find their passion at any point in their life.
