Charity launches digital project in pubs across Cornwall

A charity has launched a pioneering scheme to help people learn and share computer skills whilst enjoying a drink in local pubs across Cornwall.

The Cornwall Rural Community Charity set up the Digital Champion project, which is funded by Cornwall Council, to help people improve their IT skills and gain confidence when using a computer.

In addition to providing training for locals, the scheme will be beneficial to rural pubs, helping them to keep their trade up.

Essential

The Old Inn at Mullion was one of the first public houses to test out the scheme. Locals were provided with beginner courses and also had the chance to learn basic skills such as browsing the web, emailing and internet security on devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops.

Sara Liddle, licensee at The Old Inn, praised the scheme, stating that it is great that training for “essential life skills” can be provided in an environment that is “local, warm and friendly” and that the set-up does not feel as “daunting” as learning in a classroom.

Beneficial

Reg Clarke, advisor for Pub is The Hub, which has partnered up with the Cornwall Rural Community Charity for the project, described it as a “fantastic mutually beneficial initiative” for pubs that have good Wi-Fi and their community.

He added that people will need these “essential skills” when Government information about benefits and other services go online by 2020, and that projects such as these bring the training to older residents or hard-to-reach people.