Free computer skills training in pubs

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Pub is The Hub has joined forces with Lancashire County Council in their Local Community Services Champions initiative to provide free computer classes to absolute beginners.

They are inviting any licensees in Lancashire (except those in the unitary authorities of Blackpool and Blackburn) who would like to host free basic computer skills training in their pubs to customers or local people who need help with tasks such as using a mouse, a keyboard or even turning a computer on, to using email and the internet. Lancashire Adult Learning will provide laptops, internet access and professional tutor support.

The courses last between 4-6 weeks, up to the point that the learner becomes an independent user. The funding is only available until 31st March this year, so anyone who is interested must apply as soon as possible. Any pub hosting these sessions is asked to provide tables, chairs, plug points and a quiet area of the pub or a meeting room to set aside for up to six people. Each session lasts 90 minutes and tutors usually support two sessions a week on a nominated day.

Malcolm Harrison, the Chairman of the North West Hub for Pub is The Hub said: “This is the perfect opportunity to fill some quiet days in your pub with local residents who need to learn some new skills. Pubs are warm, accessible and open for long hours during the day so they make the ideal space to provide community initiatives like this.”

Trish Horniman, UKonline Co-ordinator from Lancashire County Council added: “We find that many people receive computers for Christmas from families who are keen to get them online and connected. Now is an ideal time to support them and their first tentative steps with a computer. Anyone with their own laptop, netbook or tablet is very welcome to bring them into the training sessions. It’s great that Pub is The Hub can help us to make contact with great community licensees and operators.”

Anyone interested is running basic computer skills training courses in their pubs should call Trish on 07825 931 336 or email but please note that courses must be complete by 31st March 2012.