The Access Foundation Grants £15,268 to Support Vulnerable Women

According to the Office of National Statistics, 61% of people in the UK with no basic digital skills are women.

The Access Foundation has awarded combined grants of £15,268 to women’s organisations that help empower women through technology. Sunderland Women’s Centre and Arachne Greek Cypriot Women’s Group teach women from disadvantaged communities the digital skills they need to connect online and give them access to learning, employment and community support.

Sunderland Women’s Centre strives to ensure equality of opportunity by identifying and removing barriers to learning and supporting women from underrepresented or disadvantaged groups. The Centre aims to improve prospects of employment and quality of life by offering educational, leisure, health, and well-being courses to all women from the city and surrounding areas, empowering women who feel excluded to realise their potential.

The £14,430 grant will enable Sunderland Women’s Centre to provide digital skills courses. Many of the women who attend the Centre are from disadvantaged backgrounds, with no access to laptops or limited or no internet access.

These digital skills courses are not just about improving basic computer skills and knowledge. They are about empowering learners, boosting their confidence, and enhancing their employment prospects. Moreover, these skills are invaluable for everyday tasks such as applying for benefits and housing, online banking, and staying safe online.

The Arachne Greek Cypriot Women’s Group is a community-based charity in Islington that provides welfare advice and support, health awareness and information, employment advice and training, accessible groups and classes, and volunteering opportunities to help women across London maximise their potential. It also provides opportunities to celebrate the Greek and Greek Cypriot communities.

The £4,838 grant will support the 200 women attending the Arachne Greek Cypriot Women’s Group who are experiencing digital exclusion. It will provide a safe learning environment where participants can develop their digital skills and confidence using devices and the internet. Moreover, these devices can help them stay in touch with friends and family and access other important support.

Marekhi, aged 38, shared her experience:

“It has really helped me get out of my home each week and to interact and communicate with others. I am learning new skills which will help me in the future. Thank you for all your support, I feel like I am moving forward again.”

Source: *Exploring the UK’s digital divide – www.ons.gov.uk