Starting Point Community Learning Partnership

02/10/2026

Thank you for this week 💙

01/10/2026

It's / and we’ve been chatting with residents taking part in our 12-week digital skills project with Housing 21 about what being online means to them.

From seeing great-grandchildren on social media and managing online banking, to understanding QR codes, making phones easier to use and feeling safer around scams: it’s not about becoming a digital expert. It’s about having the confidence to have a go. And as one learner put it:

“Even if it’s just one thing each week, it makes a big difference." We couldn’t agree more.

Read more here: https://startpoint.org.uk/2026/10/01/celebrating-older-peoples-day-with-housing-21/

For many older people, being able to use a smartphone, tablet or computer confidently can make a real difference to everyday life. From keeping in touch with family and friends to managing money, b…

01/10/2026

How good does Street Tag look? If you need some help downloading the app or getting started we are at Brebdury, Offerton, Bramhall & Cheadle libraries every week.

30/09/2026

September has been a busy one. So busy, in fact, that we’ve had to call in reinforcements to help crunch the numbers… 🐾 Admittedly, her Excel skills still need a little work, but enthusiasm is high. Across Stockport, we provided:

📱 96 SIM cards

💻 5 laptops

📲 4 tablets

☎️ 17 phones

That’s a lot of data to keep track of. But behind every one of those numbers is a person.

😊Someone who can now apply for a job.
😊Someone who can access their Universal Credit journal.
😊Someone who can make a healthcare appointment.
😊Someone who can stay in touch with their family.
😊Someone who is a little less isolated because they can get online.

Digital access is no longer a luxury.And digital inclusion isn’t just about teaching people how to use technology. Sometimes the biggest barrier is much simpler: You can’t use what you can’t afford to access.

That’s why tackling digital poverty means addressing skills, devices and connectivity together — making sure people aren’t excluded from everyday life simply because the cost of being online is beyond their reach.

And judging by September’s numbers, our newest member of the team may need another coffee.* ☕🐶


*please don’t give your pooches caffeine!

25/09/2026

"I was missing meetings because my phone kept overheating and switching off."

This week, one of the care leavers we support at the Leaving Care Hub, received a replacement device after struggling to stay engaged with important meetings, panels and opportunities using an unreliable phone.

What looks like a simple piece of technology can make a huge difference. It means being heard, staying connected, accessing opportunities and building a brighter future. Every week we see how the right support, at the right time, can remove barriers and help people thrive. 💙

23/09/2026

Digital skills can open new opportunities. Our free Google AI course reached 72 people last month, while learners used AI tools to strengthen CVs, improve documents, and build confidence with technology.

Every new skill is a step towards greater independence and opportunity. If you feel like all this talk about AI is leaving you behind, get in touch to get involved.🚀

10/09/2026

John Lewis has said Christmas roles will begin to be advertised online from the end of September through to November on the JLP Christmas Jobs site. On the web page, candidates can also register for Christmas job alerts, to ensure they don't miss any openings. If you want tips and help to apply for seasonal work, we are running a free course at County at the end of the month. Contact us for more information and to book your place ❤️

https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/shopping/john-lewis-makes-christmas-jobs-34584373?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwdGRjcAUP6aNwZG9mBWZkaWQWUOIiHTzmlHpL4nsz9NG9uKkJbh-f8WV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR4Fp7Y_yatagwninvXaUwb3MxuA-vAtSnY8sxLaV7Iwi2xuUly6bf8RwN-6Yg_aem_iZcH688_t-kSdh9VrTqu_w

09/09/2026

Well today has been a digital champion day! 🎉 Some of our existing volunteers joined us to learn how they can support people looking for work more effectively. And we also welcomed a new cohort of digital champions who are learning the ropes. We look forward to seeing them join our digital drop ins in libraries and also helping out at console club. Thank you to everyone who gives up their time to help their friends and neighbours to thrive online 😍

02/09/2026

🎮 CONSOLE CLUB IS BACK! 🎮

We’re excited to announce the return of Console Club at Starting Point Learning Hub! 🙌

For young people aged 8–14, Console Club is a fun, friendly and safe space to game, make friends, build teamwork skills and enjoy some structured screen time.

📅 Every Wednesday during term time
⏰ 4pm–6pm

Come along, have fun, meet new people and enjoy gaming in a welcoming environment! 🎮✨

We can’t wait to see you there! 💙

Email [email protected] to book a place

28/08/2026

A brilliant week at Starting Point! 💛 Despite a smaller team, we’ve supported 72 people, delivered 7 community sessions, benefited from 11 volunteer hours, and gifted 28 SIM cards, 4 tablets and 3 phones. That’s an incredible £5,660 worth of equipment and data helping local people stay connected, access opportunities and thrive online. A huge thank you to our team, volunteers and partners who make this possible every week. 👏