Whether you're looking to strengthen your organisation's digital capabilities or help residents gain the confidence and skills they need to get online, there is a wide range of support available. From digital skills training, home assistance and free workshops to online learning resources and tools for non-profit organisations, the services below can help individuals, volunteers and community groups make the most of digital technology and reduce digital exclusion across Bury.
Bury VCFA
Bury VCFA supports and strengthens Bury's voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCSE) sector. They offer a range of services including training and events, volunteering opportunities, funding and development support, resources and toolkits, networking opportunities, and strategic representation to help local organisations grow, collaborate and better support their communities.
They also provide access to practical guidance, grants information, community partnerships, and regular updates on local opportunities, helping charities and community groups build capacity, secure funding and increase their impact across Bury.
Bury VCFA Digital Toolkit - This online toolkit aims to consolidate the common topic areas frequently inquired about by non-profit organisations and to direct users to some of the best resources available, produced by a variety of charities, tech organisations, and volunteers.
Training & Events | Bury VCFA - Bury VCFA host a range of events to support and empower local organisations, groups, and individuals through high-quality training and engaging events. These include sessions such as how to use AI in community organisation.
AbilityNet
Offers a range of free services designed to help organisations, staff, volunteers and residents build digital confidence and make the most of technology.
Please see their website for more details, available at this link here: https://abilitynet.org.uk/
Their helpline is available at 0300 180 0028. It is open 9-5 Monday to Friday, except Thursdays when it's open 12-5.
Digital Ninja Training
This is aimed at staff and volunteers who support people in their communities with technology. Delivered primarily online, the sessions focus on practical approaches, confidence-building techniques and tips for supporting people with a wide range of digital needs. In-person training may be available where resources allow.
Digital Voice Support
Provides training for organisations on how to support residents through the change from traditional landlines to Digital Voice services. Support is also available for small groups and individuals, with escalation routes into major telecoms providers for those requiring additional assistance.
Free Home IT Support
Is available for residents who need help using technology at home. Volunteers can help with a range of issues, including setting up devices, getting online and improving digital confidence. Individuals can self-refer for a home visit or be referred by a support worker.
Referrals can be made by phoning 0300 180 0028 (open 9-5 Monday to Friday, except Thursday open 12-5) or online at this link: https://abilitynet.org.uk/free-tech-support-and-info/request-free-it-support-home#home-visit-request
Barclays
Free Workshops
Barclays offers a range of free workshops that they can deliver to community groups, school groups, charities and more.
Topics available include:
- Budgeting and managing money
- Financial wellbeing and financial literacy
- Building savings habits
- Understanding mortgages and renting
- Fraud and scam awareness
- Online privacy and staying safe online
- Understanding money mules and financial crime
- Cost of living support
- CV writing and interview preparation
- Building self-confidence and proactive behaviours
To enquire about arranging a workshop, please email digitalsupport@bury.gov.uk.
LifeSkills Platform
Organisations and residents can also access a wide range of free self-led learning through the Barclays LifeSkills platform, which provides practical tools, guides and activities to support financial capability, employability and personal development.
To access the platform, click this link here: https://barclayslifeskills.com/.
Events
Barclays are available to support community-based events by attending to provide advice on budgeting and managing money, fraud and scam awareness and many other topics.
Please contact digitalsupport@bury.gov.uk if you would like to enquire about Barclays attending an event.
Digital Support Resources for Non-Profit Organisations
Microsoft 365 for Nonprofits - Discover how Microsoft 365 with Microsoft Teams can enhance your nonprofit by improving cybersecurity, reducing costs, and enabling staff and volunteers to work from anywhere.
Sky Up Digital Hubs – Sky Up programme partners with local community organisations to support the most underserved areas with digital upskilling and Wi-Fi provision.
Virgin Media O2 Connected More Digital Skills Programme - Virgin Media O2 Business’ Connect More programme is delivered by their staff volunteers who share their time to build digital skills and confidence, working alongside public sector customers and community organisations.
Google for Nonprofits - Google for Nonprofits provides eligible charities with free access to Google tools like Google Workspace for professional collaboration, YouTube features for fundraising, £7,700 per month in Google Ad Grants, and mapping tools to visualise projects. These resources help nonprofits increase visibility, engage with communities, and operate more effectively.
Henshaws – They are a charity dedicated to supporting individuals with sight loss and other disabilities. They provide advice, training, and support for those with visual impairments, including support with special educational needs, arts and crafts, sports and digital support.
Manchester Deaf Centre – Their aim is to empower and include deaf individuals by enhancing communication and providing essential services, including digital skills, British Sign Language (BSL) courses, employment support, social activities, health and social care advocacy, and services for children and young people.
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