Free tablet, digital skills course and broadband access available – Limited places
Digital Durham and DurhamLearn are working together to help Teesdale residents build confidence online.
Being online can make everyday life easier, from keeping in touch with family and friends to accessing NHS services, banking, shopping and council information. Digital skills are increasingly important for accessing services, staying informed and reducing isolation.
However, people living in rural areas can face additional barriers such as poor connectivity, limited access to training and support, or not having the right device to get started. This programme aims to ensure that residents in rural communities such as Teesdale have the confidence, skills and equipment they need to participate fully in today’s digital world.
This free programme is designed for people who are currently offline or lack the skills, equipment or internet access needed to make the most of digital technology.
What’s included?
Eligible residents who complete the programme will receive:
- A Samsung Galaxy A11+ tablet, protective case and charger
- A pre-loaded SIM card, (donated by Good Things Foundation)
- 6 hours of informal learning.
What will you learn
The course is delivered in a relaxed, friendly and informal environment over two 3-hour face-to-face sessions at community venues across Teesdale. Learners will be supported and topics covered include:
- Getting started and using a tablet with confidence
- Accessing online services, including NHS, council and banking services
- Staying safe and secure online
- Finding information and support on the internet
Please note that both sessions must be attended to qualify for a tablet.
Date Time Venue Address
12 & 19 October 2026
(Mondays)9am to 12pm Randolph Community Centre Stones End
Evenwood
DL14 9RE
To be confirmed
(Wednesdays)2pm to 5pm YMCA Community Cafe Lipscomb Hall
Cockfield
DL13 5DL
2 & 9 November 2026
(Mondays)9am to 12pm The Witham 3 Horse Market
Barnard Castle
DL12 5DL
4 & 11 November 2026
(Wednesdays)9am to 12pm Witton-le-Wear Community Centre School Street
Witton-le-Wear
DL14 0AS
16 & 18 November 2026
(Monday & Wednesday)9am to 12pm UTASS 9-11 Chapel Row
Middleton-in-Teesdale
DL12 0SN
Why Being Online Matters
Access to digital technology and the skills to use it can make a real difference, particularly in rural communities where services may be harder to reach. Being online helps people stay connected, access essential services, manage daily tasks, save time and money, and find information, learning and support.
As more services move online, digital skills are increasingly important for staying independent, informed and connected. For rural residents, greater digital confidence can help overcome barriers of distance and access more opportunities.
Who can take part
Courses begin at five community venues across Teesdale from 12 October 2026. Places are limited and subject to eligibility. To take part, learners must be aged 18 or over and be a resident of County Durham.
How to register
If you know a family member, friend or neighbour who could benefit from getting online, please encourage them to take part.
To register and sign up, complete the online form:
Digital skills registration form
Alternatively, contact DurhamLearn on 03000 266 115.
For any other information or queries about the sessions contact Digital Durham:
Email: digital.durham@durham.gov.uk
Telephone: 03000 261 160
