Get Torfaen Online

A new campaign to help local people get more out of the internet is being launched on March 24th at Cwmbran library.

'Get Torfaen Online' is led by a number of agencies who have combined their expertise to offer Torfaen residents the help and support they need to get more out of the internet.

Under one banner Housing Associations Melin Homes and Bron Afon are joined by Communities First, Communities 2.0, Torfaen Libraries, Job Centre Plus, WEA, Torfaen Employability Team and Partners IT to help people boost their skills using the internet.

Mum of one Amy Williams from Blaenavon has already benefited from IT help. Melin Homes Digital Inclusion Officer Louise Kingdon took a referral from the housing association's 'Works' team and helped Amy boost her skills. Amy said: "My daughter recently started nursery full time which means I can start thinking about getting into work. Louise found an IT course for me that I can do from home and also loaned me a Melin Works lap top."

Kim Swales (59), Bron Afon Tenant emailed this after participating in Bron Afon digital inclusion session: He said: “This morning was the most useful hour I've spent in years. Look forward to many more.”

Torfaen AM Lynne Neagle will be at the launch in March. She said: "Get Torfaen Online will provide a one-stop shop, so people will receive a well-co-ordinated, appropriate package of support."

Melin Homes Chief Executive Mark Gardner said: “Latest Welsh Government figures show that 29% of Torfaen residents don’t use the internet. With the Government's 'Digital by Default' agenda, it is more important than ever for people to get online. The partnership created via the Get Torfaen Online project will help residents in the borough take advantage of cost saving and skill-building opportunities the internet can offer.”