Maldon District Council has launched a free digital skills programme, in conjunction with other councils in Essex.

As part of the North Essex Economic Board (NEEB), the Council aims to support residents wishing to improve their digital skills, or help them find work in the growing sector.

NEEB is formed of Braintree, Tendring, Uttlesford & Maldon District Councils, Chelmsford City Council and Colchester Borough Council.

The online-only courses have been designed for any age group. Anybody over the age of 18, whether they are unemployed or employed and looking to 'upskill', can sign up.

The term 'upskilling' refers to individuals working to expand their capabilities through additional training.

Councillor Penny Channer, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: "I am very pleased we are able to work in partnership with our neighbouring authorities to support local residents and businesses in this way.

"These free digital-skills programmes are a great way to learn the basics or build your knowledge for a future career."

A range of bespoke, fully funded digital-skills support and training is available from We Are Digital, Shaw Trust, and Tech Talent Academy.

We Are Digital - Inclusion training aimed at those with little or no IT skills.

Training sessions include:

• Understanding and using the Internet
• Using Email Basics
• Using Online Forms and Shopping Services
• Using Social Media
• Introduction to Skype
• Digital Money Management

Call 0114 551 2551 or get in touch via email.

Shaw Trust - Training and placements in businesses aimed at residents recently unemployed or redundant due to Covid-19.

Get support onto the right path of employment with tailored training and bespoke support.

• Give you one-to-one support
• Support your mental health and wellbeing
• Prepare you to move back into work
• Provide coaching and mentoring

Contact Jo McKechnie on 07850 775 035 or via email.

Tech Talent Academy - Certified courses for those with an existing basic knowledge of IT

Tech Talent Academy's courses will help to upskill those with an existing basic knowledge of IT and support them into entry-level jobs within the industry. Programmes include software, data, cloud and cyber skills.

Contact Tech Talent Academy via email or visit the website.

The digital skills programmes are part of a range of support funded by the NEEB partners. This includes a range of business support in areas such as business start-up, importing/exporting and low carbon transformation.

For more information, visit the website.