Help to get online
Support to help you get online at Tameside Libraries
Our libraries have excellent IT facilities, including computers that can be used by members free of charge for one hour a day. Becoming a member is free!
Wi-Fi is available for free in all Tameside Libraries, please choose TMBC Public WiFi and follow the instructions to log your device on using Facebook, Twitter, Google or by text verification. You will need to log in again each time you come into the library.
Printing, 3-D printing (Ashton Library) and photocopying is available for small fee, find out more at www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries/charges
You can find out what IT equipment is available at each library at www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries/computer/access
There are eight welcoming libraries across Tameside which provide soft seating, free-Wi-Fi, and computer facilities where residents can spend their time reading or relaxing. Friendly and helpful library staff can also provide people with a range of advice and signpost to local support which available.
To find your local library and opening times visit www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries/openingtimes
TechKnow Buddies
TechKnow Buddies are volunteers who are skilled at helping people with little or no experience of computers.
Book a 60 minute session with our TechKnow Buddies at Ashton Library (volunteers being recruited for other libraries).
By phoning 0161 342 2031
Email information.direct@tameside.gov.uk
Ask for more details in your local library.
Don’t forget you can also become a Tech Know Buddy Volunteer.
Find out more information at www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries/buddies
I.T. Courses For Beginners at Tameside’s Libraries
- Learn My Way
Get started with Learn My Way - Ashton Library every Tuesday 11am-12noon.
Free and simple online courses for beginners. Come along to our free workshop to help you get started using your device and getting online.
Find out how to register at www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries/learn
- Online Job Searching
Free and simple online courses to help with searching for a job online. Come along to our free workshop to help you get started looking for jobs and applying online or developing other skills useful for work.
Find out how to register at www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries/learn
- Improve Your Digital Skills – iDEA
Get started with iDEA - Ashton Library every Thursday 3.30-4.30pm. Free online courses to improve your digital skills; collect badges as you complete units and build up to an award.
Find out how to register at www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries/learn
Free SIM cards and data for low income households via The Good Things Foundation, Greater Manchester Data Bank
Tameside Libraries are now part of the Good Things Foundation National Databank, which can offer free SIM cards to adults who cannot afford to access the internet. Residents will normally receive data for up to 6 months.If you would like to apply please call our Libraries team on 0161 342 2031.
To be eligible to receive data from the National Databank, you must:
- Be 18+ years old
- AND be from a low-income household
And qualify in one or several of the following statements:
- Has no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
- AND/OR has no or insufficient access to the internet when away from the home
- AND/OR cannot afford their existing monthly contract or top up
Find other online centres at www.onlinecentresnetwork.org/ournetwork/find-centre
Find out more about The National Databank
Other Organisations Providing Digital Support
If you, or someone you know, need help with basic IT skills, PC Refurb have a variety of sessions running throughout Tameside.Find out about the sessions on offer here: Digital Skills Training and Support - PCrefurb
The Together Centre IT Suite
If you or someone you know needs help with basic IT skills, The Together Centre, Dukinfield, provide support within their community IT suite.
Find the Together Centre at Loxley House, 287 Birch Lane, Dukinfield, Tameside, SK16 5AU. They can help you learn how to search the web, shop online, use social media, send emails, print documents, search family history and make appointments.
Contact the Together Centre by calling 0161 366 1987, emailing Leanne.bold@thetogethercentre.org.uk or pop in for a chat.
National Support to get online
Visit www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/what-we-do/digital/get-online-greater-manchester/national-support/ to find national support.
Are you paying too much for your broadband, TV or phone?
Ofcom provide advice on how you can check your tariffs to make sure you’re not over paying, please visit www.ofcom.org.uk/cheap-broadband for further information.
Support for care leavers in Greater Manchester
In a drive to address inequalities and levelling up across the region, Greater Manchester’s leaders, private and public sector and young person’s charities have worked together with the Greater Manchester care leavers' network to design a comprehensive package of support including access to free data connectivity for 12 months, devices and free digital skills training to support care leavers to build their skills and confidence online and benefit from opportunities to thrive.
Care leavers can access the scheme via a simple application process to be completed with support from a care leaver’s professional contact, known as personal advisors.
Find the application at www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/what-we-do/digital/get-online-greater-manchester/greater-manchester-wide-support/get-online-greater-manchester-for-care-leavers/