Spark iT

Over 11 million people in the UK need help to get online. Together, we can reduce that number. 

Why is digital inclusion important? 

Digital Inclusion is about helping people to develop the skills and confidence they need to use digital technology safely.  We believe that people can improve their health, wellbeing and connectivity by finding online confidence.  And, as the internet becomes increasingly embedded in our day-to day lives, it is more important than ever to ensure people can access online government, health, and business services and use the internet for entertainment purposes too. 

How can Spark iT help?

Spark iT aims to provide support to anyone in Somerset who wants to access the internet, but can’t currently get online. We do this by: 

  • Operating and supporting Digital Cafés and other drop-in services in key towns across the county. Click here to find a service near you, or find a full list at the bottom of this page.

  • Accepting referrals from health professionals and charities and providing a one-to-one home and community visiting service. Professionals can click here to make a referral for skills support or our device loan scheme. 

  • Partnering with community organisations and businesses to help low-income families access digital devices and data. 

  • Training and supporting staff and volunteers from community organisations to deliver digital support in their own groups and meetings. 

  • Providing basic digital skills advice by telephone to any Somerset resident who needs it. The Helpdesk is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm. Call 01458 550 977. 

How to get involved 

We have a network of Somerset Digital Champion volunteers who are interested in technology, and really interested in helping their neighbours - and we'd love you to join us! We have a wide variety of voluntary roles available and our Digital Champions have access to an extensive package of training and support. You can find out more and sign up to be a Digital Champion here.  

For more information about Spark iT please email (sparkit@sparksomerset.org.uk), telephone 01458 550 977, or get in touch via Live Chat. 

We're delivering Spark iT in partnership with BARCLAYS, SOMERSET NHS FOUNDATION TRUST, and SOMERSET ICS

Digital Cafés

Digital Cafés are free to attend and open to anyone who is struggling to keep up with technology or would like to learn how to get online, or use a mobile phone, laptop or tablet.

All Digital Cafés are run by fully trained staff and volunteers and are based in accessible buildings with good public transport links.

For a full listing of Digital Cafe venues across Somerset please click here but you can regularly find our teams at places like:

  • Burnham-on-Sea, at the Waffle Hub (Methodist Church, College Street), every Wednesday between 10am – 12pm
  • Frome, downstairs in the Cheese & Grain in Frome, every Thursday between 10am - 12pm 
  • Shepton Mallet Library, every Thursday from 2pm - 4pm
  • Bridgwater at The Hub, Angel Place in Bridgwater, every Thursday from 1pm - 3pm
  • Minehead Eye, every Thursday from 1pm - 3pm
  • Wincanton at The Balsam Centre every Wednesday from 10am - 12pm
  • Yeovil at The Gateway Cafe every Tuesday from 10am - 12pm
  • Chard at Eleos Café (Fore Street) every Friday from 10am - 12pm

 
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