Fundraising for digital support in Whitchurch
BizEd Projects CIC is leading the way in Whitchurch to ensure digital skills and services can be accessed by people of all ages.
The Whitchurch Digital Skills Project ensures the whole community is connected and able to access help and support when digital challenges are faced.
The Whitchurch Digital Skills Project involves the provision of laptops and equipment, office space, staff support and workshops. Not only will the project target support towards those who struggle to get online but it will also ensure people who would like to grow their skills and digital knowledge can access the information and training they need. The support will extend to a co-work club for local self-employed people and any who would benefit from business breakfasts, networking and collaboration for innovation.
The Whitchurch Digital Hub is located on High Street, easily accessible for the wider community.
To complete the project and supply the equipment and office set up necessary for success, more support is needed and the project is currently raising funds through Crowdfund Shropshire.
Crowdfund Shropshire is a civic crowdfunding platform delivered by Shropshire Council in partnership with crowdfunding specialists, Spacehive. Other partners include Shropshire VCS Assembly, Community Resource and the Voluntary and Community Support Team, Shropshire Wildlife Trust and Energize. The approach matches larger public sector pledges (awards) with local fundraising.
Shropshire Council and its partners have been able to financially support the project with a pledge of £10,000. This uses funds from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) which proactively supports delivery of the UK-government’s five national missions: pushing power out to communities everywhere, with a specific focus to help kickstart economic growth and promoting opportunities in all parts of the UK.
Cllr Alex Wagner, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Communities commented:
“I’m delighted to see the Whitchurch Digital Hub on Crowdfund Shropshire and to see that over £11,000 has already been raised. However, I’m also conscious that to achieve a more sustainable programme of activity there is more support needed to achieve the project fundraising target. I’d like to encourage anyone in a position to help to support. If a large number of individuals donate just a few pounds each it all adds up. If you are a local business, please also consider if you can assist.”
Cllr Andy Hall, Councillor for Whitchurch North commented:
“Digital inclusion is such an important area of work, as many organisations seek to reduce costsand make efficiencies through use of online services. We are all aware of the challenges people face when they lack the equipment, skills or support from others to access services online, or when things go wrong and we don’t have the knowledge to understand why or how to fix the problem.
“I am so pleased that Whitchurch is home to BizEd CIC which was established to offer community digital skills in 2021. Vicki, Laura, Ellie, Carla and everyone else involved in the Whitchurch Digital Hub project should be congratulated on their shared vision and commitment to make a difference locally.”
