North of England and Scotland broadband provider GoFibre has teamed up with Northumberland based health and wellbeing charity Bell View to run social events to help people in rural areas with their IT problems.

The Tea, Tech and Talk sessions will be held weekly in locations to support communities in the North Northumberland area.

The broadband provider is funding the sessions through its social impact strategy, which includes a focus on improving digital inclusion and aims to “make a positive, long-term difference” to communities in the areas it covers.

Its previous charity partnerships through its community grant initiative the GoFurther Fund have included links with Hospice Care North Northumberland, Border Links, Inky Fingers Art Club and Berwick Rangers Junior Youth Development Trust.

“Helping to reduce the digital divide in the areas where we build is very important to GoFibre, so we’re delighted to be partnering with Bell View’s Tea, Tech and Talk sessions,” said GoFibre chief executive Neil Conaghan.

“These workshops not only help local people with their tech issues but also support their wellbeing through providing an opportunity to interact with others at the same time.”

Bell View head of operations Juliet Short added: “In rural North Northumberland, many people struggle not only with broadband connectivity but also with the confidence and skills to use rapidly evolving digital technology effectively.

“Our Tea, Tech and Talk sessions bridge this gap by providing patient, friendly support in a relaxed social setting.

“GoFibre's partnership demonstrates real commitment to the communities it serves. Its investment will help us reach more isolated residents, ensuring that improved broadband infrastructure is matched by the skills and support people need to benefit from it.”

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