New Community Digihub opens in Laindon

The new hub is the 10th to open in Essex and will help close the digital inclusion gap in Basildon.

Essex County Council has opened a new Community Digihub in Laindon, Basildon.

Photo: Richard Holden MP with Councillor Louse McKinlay

This new Digihub will make sure none miss out on digital opportunities due to a lack of connectivity or access.

It will also help residents access vital support online including council and health services such as the NHS app.

The DigiHub will open 1pm to 3 pm every Thursday and is located at: Laindon Health Centre, High Road, Laindon, Basildon, Essex, SS15 5TR

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Economic Growth and Prosperity said:

“I am delighted that we have launched the new Community Hub in Laindon. It is a great space for residents to get online, use equipment like laptops, or to get help in improving their IT and digital skills. Sitting alongside the health facilities, it offers access to important services and training.
“The volunteers and people running it are very friendly and welcoming. I look forward to seeing the future positive success stories!”

Dr Anita Pereira, GP at Laindon Medical Group and Clinical Lead for Prevention, Personalised care, and Population Health Management at NHS Mid and South Essex, said:
“Working with Essex County Council and the wider community to provide this space for Laindon residents is a privilege. For many of us, digital technology is so important to our lives, that we can forget about how difficult life can be without it. Being able to do things like check symptoms via NHS 111 at any time or book health appointments when it is convenient can make a big impact. So, if you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with using a computer, please come give the DigiHub a visit!”

There are now 10 Community DigiHubs in Essex. The programme is an initiative developed by the Digital Essex programme at the council and since 2024 has delivered around 300 training sessions to residents.

It has helped residents to:
- secure employment
- access and engage in education
- gain access to healthcare
- stay in touch with loved ones
- become more connected with others- learn how to access the Digital Help Finder.

The hubs have improved residents' digital skills. They have also created opportunities for education, jobs, and starting new businesses.

Photo: Laindon GP surgery staff pictured with Councillor Louse McKinlay

The Laindon Community Digihub was officially opened on Friday 23 May by Councillor McKinlay. Richard Holden, MP for Basildon and Billericay, also attended and spoke at the opening.

More hubs are set to launch later this year.