Walsall Connected helps more than 20,000 residents get online

A successful collaboration between Walsall Council and local community associations, libraries and partner organisations across the borough has resulted in more than 20,000 residents receiving face-to-face support to help them access online council services.

Walsall Connected ensures that residents who feel digitally excluded or have a disability that makes it harder for them to access online services independently can get support to access first-line council advice or information easily.   

There are now 29 Walsall Connected centres across the borough and the initiative is marking its two-year anniversary this week. All centres have free Wi-Fi and access to public computers, with trained staff and volunteers on hand to assist people and teach them valuable digital skills.    

To mark the anniversary, community members and staff came together to cut a specially made cake at the Stan Ball Centre in Bloxwich.   

Councillor Garry Perry, Leader of Walsall Council, said, “In its first two years, Walsall Connected has made a real impact right in the heart of our communities and played a key role in our transformation programme. 

“We are committed to ensuring easy access to our services and the delivery of this initiative has been a key example of partnership working coming together to help reach those people most in need and ensuring that Walsall is a connected borough for all. 

“By supporting residents to develop the skills they need to access support, information and advice, Walsall Connected is helping bridge the digital divide for those people who need additional face-to-face support in our increasingly technological world.     

"I’d like to thank everyone who has made this initiative such a success.” 

Councillor Amandeep Garcha, Portfolio Holder for Resident Access and Housing Support, said, “It was wonderful to attend the celebratory event and to chat with the team delivering this marvellous service.   

“We want to improve access to our digital services whilst supporting our residents to develop their digital skills to gain digital independence. 

“Walsall Connected has been shortlisted for several awards, which highlights the fantastic work done by our team as well our voluntary and community partners. 

“The team are so dedicated, and through that dedication, they are making a real impact across the borough and helping some of our most vulnerable residents.” 

Since its launch two years ago, Walsall Connected has provided face-to-face support to 21,741 residents on a wide range of topics, from council tax enquiries to providing adult social care and Blue Badge information.   

During this time, the number of Walsall Connected Centres has grown from two to a network of 29, incorporating council-owned libraries, community partnerships and other partner organisations. One of the most popular centres can be found at Walsall Manor Hospital and since it opened in July 2023, this Walsall Connected site has provided support to more than 1000 people.   

Over the last 12 months, more than 850 people registered as disabled have received support through the centres. Over the same period, 91% of customers received successful assistance during their initial contact.   

Further details about locations and how to access the support can be found on the council’s website: www.walsall.gov.uk/people_and_communities/walsall_connected