Empowering Salford, One Connection at a Time: Celebrating Digitober 2026

Digital exclusion can have a significant impact on people's everyday lives, particularly older residents, people experiencing financial hardship, migrants, refugees and other vulnerable members of our community.

As more essential services move online, even simple tasks can become difficult without the right support. Accessing an NHS GP account, ordering a prescription, navigating an E-Visa or searching for employment opportunities can feel daunting for someone who isn't familiar with digital technology.

These challenges can affect people's independence, confidence and ability to access opportunities that many of us take for granted.

Through Digitober, we wanted to create a welcoming space where residents could ask questions, learn at their own pace and receive practical support without feeling judged or overwhelmed.

Our approach was simple: listen first, understand each person's needs and provide patient, personalised guidance that helps them move forward with confidence.

Throughout October, our one to one digital mentoring sessions provided residents with practical support to navigate some of the online services that play an important role in everyday life.

Participants received guidance on accessing NHS GP online portals, finding healthcare information and ordering prescriptions. Others were supported in understanding and navigating E-Visas, helping them become more confident when managing important digital documentation.

We also supported residents with online job searches, helping them explore employment opportunities and become more comfortable navigating digital recruitment platforms.

Behind each of these activities was something much more meaningful than simply learning to use a device. It was about giving people the confidence to take control of tasks that previously felt difficult or unfamiliar.

For some, success meant accessing an online account independently. For others, it was understanding how to complete a task they had previously relied on someone else to do.

These may seem like small steps, but they can make a lasting difference to someone's independence and self-belief.

Most importantly, our mentors didn't simply do things for participants. They took the time to explain, demonstrate and encourage, helping residents develop skills they could continue using long after the sessions had ended.

At the heart of every successful community initiative are the people who give their time, energy and commitment to making it happen.

We are incredibly grateful to our diverse team of student and community volunteers who supported residents throughout Digitober. Their enthusiasm, patience and willingness to share their knowledge helped create an environment where everyone felt welcome.

Our volunteers brought different experiences, skills and perspectives to the sessions. Their ability to provide tailored support, including bilingual assistance, was particularly valuable in helping residents overcome language barriers and feel more comfortable asking for help.

They understood that everyone learns differently. Some participants needed guidance with basic smartphone functions, while others required more specific support with online services and applications.

What made these interactions special was the human connection behind them. A friendly conversation, a reassuring explanation or simply having someone willing to sit beside you and work through a problem can make all the difference.

To every volunteer who contributed to Digitober, thank you. Your kindness and dedication helped turn digital learning into a shared community experience.

We recognise that creating lasting change requires collaboration and a shared commitment to the communities we serve.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Salford City Council and Salford CVS for their support and contribution towards making Digitober 2026 possible.

Their support reflects the importance of investing in community-led initiatives that tackle inequality, strengthen local connections and create opportunities for residents to thrive.

We are proud to be part of a wider network of organisations and individuals working towards a Salford where everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in an increasingly digital society.

While our October campaign has come to an end, our commitment to supporting Salford residents continues.

We understand that developing digital confidence takes time. Learning something new is a journey, and having somewhere friendly to return to can make all the difference.

That's why our free digital inclusion drop-in sessions continue every Thursday, and everyone is welcome.

Whether you need help using your smartphone, accessing NHS services, ordering prescriptions, navigating E-Visas, searching for jobs or simply becoming more comfortable with technology, our friendly team is here to support you.

You don't need to be an expert, and you don't need to feel embarrassed about asking questions. Whether you're taking your very first steps online or looking to develop existing skills, you'll be welcomed.

Reflecting on Digitober 2026, we are reminded that digital inclusion is ultimately about people, not technology.

It's about creating opportunities, restoring confidence and helping individuals feel more connected to the world around them. It's about recognising that everyone has something to learn and that everyone deserves the chance to do so in a supportive and welcoming environment.

To our residents, volunteers, community partners and everyone who played a part in making Digitober special, thank you for being part of this journey.

At Connect Talent CIO, we remain committed to building a more confident, connected and digitally inclusive Salford.

Because when we empower one person, we strengthen our whole community. One connection at a time.