New tool launched to help residents improve digital skills

Essex County Council has launched an innovative tool to get more residents online.

Councillor Lesley Wagland led the launch event of the Digital Help Finder Tool, accompanied by Jess Flack, Digital Inclusion Lead at Digital Essex

The Digital Help Finder also aims to boost digital skills across the county.

The tool:

- assesses current digital skills
- highlights local skills courses and support services
- helps residents access a device, connectivity and 1-to-1 support

It aims to help residents get online and develop the digital skills needed for life and work. It is also designed to give them the confidence to navigate the digital world safely.

The tool was produced by the council alongside Community Voluntary Services (CVS). The council's Digital Essex team launched it earlier this month at The Hive in Loughton.

The launch showcased how Community Voluntary Services like Voluntary Action Epping Forest (VAEF) and South Essex Community Hub (SECH) are already using the tool to map, manage and report on learner progress.

Representatives from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), Good Things Foundation and Digital Poverty Alliance were also in attendance.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Economic Growth and Prosperity said:
“The Digital Help Finder tool is an example of our dedication to closing the digital divide. It encourages digital inclusion, addresses connectivity and affordable devices, and improves digital skills."

“This tool will help us measure our impact and ensure residents have the skills and access needed in this ever changing digital world.”

Victoria Marzouki from Rayleigh and Rochford District Association for Voluntary Service said:
“We are looking at the delivery of this tool to our residents, therefore helping to reduce health inequalities, build resilience and show how the use of the CVS’s local knowledge can be used to embed this tool into our communities.”

Organisations and charities in Greater Essex that already support people getting online or wish to start doing so can contact the Digital Essex team.
To find out more, visit the Digital Essex webpage.

If you would like to see a demonstration of the tool, email digital@essex.gov.uk