Empowering Telford through Digital Skills: A Collaborative Effort

AbilityNet is pleased to announce the launch of a new Digital Upskilling Programme, made possible through funding from Capgemini.

This initiative is dedicated to enhancing the digital skills and confidence of adults aged 18 and over across Telford and Wrekin.

Delivered in partnership with Capgemini, a global leader in consulting and technology and Telford & Wrekin Council, the programme forms part of a wider commitment to community impact, with a particular focus on addressing and reducing digital exclusion in the local area.

We invite all eligible individuals to join us in this transformative journey and take the first step towards a digitally empowered future.

Sign up for support today

Jo Long, Social Value Director for the HMRC Account at Capgemini, shared heartfelt enthusiasm for the programme, saying:

“This is not just our largest social value initiative to date — it is a profound opportunity to transform lives. Collaborating with AbilityNet fills me with hope and pride, knowing that together we can open doors for so many people who have felt left behind."

The chance to help individuals gain confidence, unlock new opportunities, and connect to their communities in ways they never thought possible is nothing short of inspiring. I truly believe the impact we make here will ripple through families and futures for years to come, leaving a positive and lasting difference.”

A comprehensive approach to digital inclusion

This programme will support more than 400 individuals on their journey toward digital inclusion. The programme is committed to tackling digital exclusion as part of its broader community impact efforts.

Participants will receive support through friendly group sessions and one-to-one guidance, delivered by AbilityNet’s expert project team, as well as dedicated volunteers from both Capgemini and Telford & Wrekin Council.

Sessions will be held at community venues or, where needed, in the comfort of people’s homes, ensuring flexibility and ease of access for everyone.

Building confidence and skills

This programme aims to support a wide range of people, whether they’re looking to get online for the first time, stay connected with family and friends, manage health appointments, find employment, or navigate online services with more confidence.

Chris Grant, Community Team Leader (North UK) at AbilityNet, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:

“For more than 27 years, we’ve been helping older people and disabled individuals of all ages to navigate technology across the UK. This collaboration with Capgemini brings us closer to our goal of supporting those who are digitally excluded. By helping them build confidence and expand their digital skills, we’re enabling people across the UK to live more independent and fulfilling lives”.

Local Government support

Councillor Zona Hannington, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, Governance and Customers Services, highlighted the importance of digital skills in today's world:

“We live in a digital age, where many of our interactions with services and organisations are now online. It’s estimated that nationally 1.6 million people are living offline, so it’s important we look to find ways that can improve access and give local people the confidence and skills they need to get the most out of devices and online services”.

Get involved

If you or someone you know in Telford and Wrekin could benefit from digital skills support, or if you're interested in volunteering to help others, visit our Telford & Wrekin page to learn more.

Together, we can help make the digital world more inclusive — one confident click at a time.

How AbilityNet can help

• Call the AbilityNet Helpline on 0300 180 0028 
• Help for you, or a friend or relative
• Download FREE factsheets 
• Information on FREE webinars, and to watch recordings
• My Computer My Way: make your computer, phone or tablet easier to use