TAMESIDE is home to a new digital hub that helps residents get online and access vital life-changing services.
Based at Gibson Terrace in Ashton’s west end, the centre runs twice a week, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am until noon.
Residents can use laptops and access free Wi-Fi to help them search for available properties, look for work or skills training courses and access services such as mental health support.
And staff at Gibson Terrace will be on hand when the hub is open to help those who need it, to get set up online.
Set up by local housing provider Jigsaw Homes’ neighbourhood engagement team, which has funded the laptops, it aims to promote digital inclusion for those living in temporary, supported housing.
Civic Mayor of Tameside, Councillor Mike Glover, and Kerrie Pryde, operations director of Jigsaw Support, which runs the supported housing service, did the honours in opening the facility.
Kerrie said: “We want to give our residents as much help and support as we can to our residents.
“Often, not having access to a laptop or even Wi-Fi can mean that people find it difficult to move on with finding housing, work and external support.
“With the current cost of living crisis, we wanted to give people the opportunity to digitally connect so they can access essential information that will improve their lives.”
Cllr Glover added: “I am delighted to lend my support to such a valuable project which corresponds with a key priority within Tameside Council’s corporate plan.
“Through this hub, Jigsaw Homes is making it much easier for their residents to contact services, take advantage of educational and job opportunities, and stay in touch with family and friends. All of this is hugely significant in the digital age we now live in.”