Keeping IT in the Community

A community centre venue in Westward Ho! has been saved from closure through a partnership funding bid between North Devon Pathfinder and Torridge Voluntary Services.  Funds to secure the future of the IT Centre and community resource were secured from both Devon County Council and Leader+.

Pathfinder@Westward Ho! (formerly WHISH) will continue to offer community information, Internet access and a friendly place to meet.  Pathfinder is actively encouraging the use of the venue by community groups.

Pathfinder holds a substantial contract with learndirect to deliver on-line courses across the whole of North Devon and now local people will be able to drop in and use the computers and access the hundreds of online learndirect courses that are available, from IT to office skills or Literacy and Numeracy.  High on Pathfinder’s priorities is to help local people access the Internet for information, shopping and email. 

Not only does this bring learndirect courses into the heart of the community but Pathfinder’s team of friendly tutors will be on hand four times a week to offer taster courses, IT support and the very popular Job Searching sessions.

George Curry, Chief Executive of Pathfinder said  “This is a great local resource, and with Pathfinder tutors and access to learndirect available it will add an extra dimension to the support that we are already able offer the local community.  People will be able to update their skills, gain qualifications and work on community projects or with their children on homework.”

UK Online regional manager in the South West, Sam Jones continued:  “Technology can really bridge the generation gap, and I’m looking forward to seeing how local residents enjoy the wide range of courses available.  By working in partnership with community organisations like Pathfinder@Westward Ho! we can reach out to people who might not otherwise think learning is for them.”

The centre is open from 10.00am to 1.00pm five days a week and selected afternoons, and anyone can drop in to find out more about learndirect or other classes, use the Internet and PC facilities and chat to Pathfinder staff and volunteers. 

There will be an Open Event on Tuesday 14^th November from 10.00am – 6.00pm for  local residents to see what is available and discuss their needs with Pathfinder staff.

For further information please call the Pathfinder@Westward Ho! on 01237 477889 or Fran at Pathfinder 01271 855127