Disabled people are being supported with accessing new opportunities thanks to a new resource launched by Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
A guide, titled Get Online Greater Manchester: For disabled people, will give disabled members of communities access to organisations that can support them as they overcome digital barriers and look to reap the benefits of the opportunities that the digital world has to offer. Information will be provided on various measures, including:
- Assistive technology
- Digital skills and skills courses
- Broadband and mobile connectivity
- Staying safe online
Partners and organisations from across Greater Manchester’s Disabled People Panel offered input to put the guide together, with the driving force behind the development of the resource being that many disabled people and their carers are unaware of where they can access digital support.
Co-chair of the Greater Manchester Disabled People’s Panel, Chris Hamnett, said:
“Digital exclusion is growing in the UK. This guide to support in Greater Manchester is a good start for all disabled people and our organisations. Whether it is data, devices, or learning support, you will find the help you need to remove barriers to inclusion and make use of online services safely.”
Councillor Nick Peel, Digital Lead at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, also commented:
“This is another great step in Greater Manchester’s vision to become a world leading digital city-region. With our ambitions for Greater Manchester to become one of the first city-regions in the world to equip all under-25s, over-75s and disabled people with the skills, connectivity and technology to get online and this new resource helps ensure we’re on our way to achieving that ambition and leaving no one behind.”
Image credit: iStock
