A £2,600 grant from the Merchants House of Glasgow is helping Springburn Unity Network provide accessible Basic IT classes for people in the local community, building confidence, developing practical skills and helping participants feel more connected.

For many of us, using a smartphone, tablet or laptop is part of everyday life. But for those who lack confidence or experience with digital technology, everyday tasks can become significant barriers. The classes will give participants a welcoming and supportive environment in which to develop their skills at their own pace, from becoming more comfortable using devices to accessing online information and services.

The project is about much more than learning how to use technology. By bringing people together to learn, Springburn Unity Network hopes to tackle loneliness and social isolation, create new connections and friendships, and encourage lifelong learning. Greater digital confidence can also open doors to employment, education and other opportunities, while enabling participants to share their new skills with friends, family and others in their community.

The classes will also respond to specific needs identified locally. This includes supporting people whose first language is not English to access online learning resources and build the digital confidence needed to study independently for things such as the driving theory test.

The Merchants House grant will help meet the practical costs of delivering the project, including tutors’ time, Wi-Fi, travel expenses for participants who might otherwise struggle to attend, and refreshments to help create a welcoming learning environment.

About Springburn Unity Network

Springburn Unity Network is a registered charity based in Springburn which brings together people from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures, faiths and identities. Its work focuses on strengthening community connections, reducing loneliness and social isolation, and creating opportunities for people to learn, participate and develop their confidence.

Founded in 2021 following community development work with local residents, the organisation has grown from an initial group of 15 members into a multicultural charity supporting more than 3,000 people across Springburn and the wider Glasgow area.

Its activities range from educational workshops and language classes to volunteering, wellbeing activities, youth programmes and community events. At the heart of its approach is the belief that communities are strengthened when people have opportunities to connect, learn from one another and play an active role in shaping their own futures.

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