Get Online Week is a national campaign led by the Good Things Foundation, the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity. Since 2007, this annual event has helped people across the country discover how being online can improve their lives.
Now in its 18th year, Get Online Week 2025 runs from 20 to 27 October, the target this year is to reach 28,000 digitally excluded people to help them understand and experience how getting online can help them become happier, healthier and better off. Through free local events hosted by community organisations, the campaign helps people gain the skills and confidence to use the internet safely, affordably, and effectively.
Why Digital Inclusion Matters
While Get Online Week celebrates the benefits of being connected, it also highlights the challenges faced by those who are still offline. In today’s world, internet access is essential not just for entertainment, but for learning, working, staying in touch, and accessing vital services.
Digital exclusion can mean:
- No access to a device or internet connection
- Lack of basic digital skills
- Not knowing what support is available
According to the Good Things Foundation:
- 3.7 million families fall below the minimum digital living standard
- 7.9 million people lack basic digital skills
- 1.9 million households struggle to afford mobile contracts
- 21 million adults can’t complete essential digital tasks for work
- 1.6 million adults don’t own a smartphone, tablet, or laptop
This digital divide deepens existing inequalities. If we want a fairer more inclusive society, we must work together to ensure everyone has the opportunity to get online.
Digital Hubs Host Community Events for Get Online Week 2025
As part of Get Online Week 2025, the Digital Durham team is partnering with several digital community hubs across County Durham to host a series of informal, drop-in events aimed at helping residents get the most out of their digital devices and online experiences.
These events are designed to be welcoming and accessible, offering attendees the chance to bring their own devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops, and receive one-on-one support. Whether you need help setting up an email account, understanding online safety, or simply want to explore what the internet can offer, the team will be on hand to assist.
Event Schedule
| Date | Time | Venue | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday 20 October 2025 | 9:00am to 12:00pm | Ferryhill LADDER Centre | 5-7 Coniston Road, Ferryhill DL17 8EZ |
| Tuesday 21 October 2025 | 9:00am to 3:00pm | Shotton Community Hub | Bridge Road, Shotton Colliery DH6 2PQ |
| Tuesday 21 October 2025 | 10:00am to 12:00pm | Shildon Alive | 91–95 Church Street, Shildon DL4 1DT |
| Wednesday 22 October 2025 | 10:00am to 12:00pm | Willington Open Door Church | Wesley Street, Willington DL15 0AG |
| Thursday 23 October 2025 | 12:00pm to 2:00pm | Laurel Avenue Community Association | The Woodlands, Durham DH1 2EY |
| Friday 24 October 2025 | 11:30am to 1:30pm | Randolph Community Centre | Stones End, Evenwood, Bishop Auckland DL14 9RE |
These sessions are free to attend and open to all. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking to brush up on your digital skills, Digital Durham is here to help you feel more confident and connected online. For more information, contact your local hub.
How You Can Help in County Durham
If you know someone who is digitally excluded, there are many ways to support them. Use our digital signposting tool to find local services that offer:
- Free computer access
- Free public Wi-Fi
- Free SIM cards with data, calls, and texts
- Loan of laptops or tablets
- Help with online tasks
- Informal and formal digital training
Free Internet Access in Libraries
All County Durham libraries offer:
- Free computer and internet access
- Bookable sessions (30 minutes, extendable to 2 hours if no one else is waiting)
- Accessibility tools (screen readers, large keyboards, tracker ball mice)
- Free access to Ancestry UK
- Paid printing and scanning services
Anyone who has joined the library can use the computers, children can use them also with parental permission and supervision. Computers also provide access to eBooks, eMagazines, and research tools. For full details, see the Public Access Internet Guidance page.
Help Someone Get Started Online
You can make a big difference by helping a friend, neighbour, or loved one explore the internet. Here are a few simple ways to get started:
- Discover new hobbies or interests
- Connect with friends on social media
- Book tickets for events or shows
- Explore free digital resources like eBooks, music, and magazines
Let’s Bridge the Digital Divide
This Get Online Week, let’s work together to make sure no one is left behind. Whether it’s sharing information, offering support, or simply encouraging someone to take their first steps online, you can help change lives.
Get involved and help County Durham get connected!
