UWE and HP pilot new project to digitally reconnect North Bristol communities

Communities in Lockleaze, Bristol have been the first to benefit from a new initiative from neighbours University of West of England (UWE) and (Hewlett Packard) HP aimed at reconnecting groups that are digitally excluded in a rapidly expanding technological age.

“Connect Lockleaze” is available at the Langley and Cameron Community Centres and Boing! in Lockleaze and North Bristol. The project aims to help a range of groups including older people, young families and those that are looking to return to work connect with the outside world through providing access to technology and developing new skills.

The scheme is being co-ordinated by UWE Volunteering and all the Centres have been kitted out with a HP donation of desktops, PCs, laptops and all in-one-printers.


So far, Connect Lockleaze and Bristol City Council's Learning Communities have worked together to deliver basic ICT and Money Matters courses to motivate and instil confidence in those who may be accessing training and technology for the first time.

Richard Reddrop, Chair of Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust and Head of Community Services at Lockleaze Primary School and Early Years Centre, said, “I am really excited that the Lockleaze community is partnering with UWE and HP; the training is something that is constantly being requested and sought and we now have the opportunities to deliver it in a quality fashion. Interest in the training is really growing in the communities and feedback so far from the participants has been really positive.”

UWE students will be leading consultations this Autumn with the community to tailor the training programme to meet the diverse needs of the local community. This could range from helping people to trace their family tree and shop online, to better social interaction through Facebook and Twitter and improved access to learning and job opportunities.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor John Rushforth, who is leading the initiative, said, “In this technological age we can take access to computers and the internet for granted. Connect Lockleaze is an excellent example of what partnership working is all about. We are delighted to be working with HP to engage with a local community just 15 minutes' walk away from the University by equipping them with the access to technology and skills needed to make a positive contribution to their daily lives.”

“We believe that providing people with technology skills is a very effective way they can enhance their employment prospects and make a difference to the community in which they live. We are proud to support this project and have been inspired by the dedication of the Bristol community and the UWE students,” commented Nick Wilson, Vice President and Managing Director of HP UK and Ireland.