Become a #CovConnects Partner
You play a vital role in helping people in Coventry get online.
#CovConnects is here to support you. We work alongside you to build on what you already do, helping you offer digital support in a way that fits with your service and your team. There's no one-size-fits-all-approach.
What it means to be a partner
As a #CovConnects Partner, you help people take their next step in their digital journey - whatever that looks like for them.
That might include:
- Offering a welcoming space with free Wi-Fi
- Providing free access to digital devices
- Supporting people to build their digital skills
- Helping people get online safely and confidently
Partners can be anything from community groups and libraries, charities, services and local organisations. No two partners are the same, which is one of the strengths of the programme. Whether you're a large organisation, or a small group, you can make a real difference.
How we support you
We give you the tools, guidance and connections to:
- Access digital devices for your community
- Upskill your team so they feel confident supporting others
- Strengthen your existing offer with digital support
- Grow your impact and reach more people
If you're not sure where to start, we'll support you every step of the way.
Get started
A good first step is to have a conversation with us. We'll help you explore what digital inclusion could look like in your setting.
You can book a chat with the #CovConnects team via Microsoft Teams. [https://outlook.office.com/book/BookingwithCovConnects@coventryCC.onmicrosoft.com/]
Before we speak, it helps to think about:
- Who you support and what their needs are
- The barriers they face getting online
- What motivates them to take the next step
- What success might look like in 6 months' time
We might ask questions like:
- Which communities are you working with?
- Are you interested in running digital skills sessions?
- Do people need devices or internet access?
- What would you like your digital support to look like in the future?
- How can we help you get there?
#CovConnects
Access digital devices
You can help more people get online by giving them access to the right devices, and we're here to support you to do that.
In Coventry, we reuse donated devices to reduce waste and create more opportunities for people. Through the #CovConnects Device Bank, you can access refurbished laptops and phones to use.
You know your people best, these devices are there to support your activity. Whether that's running sessions, supporting individuals, or helping people stay connected.
Please note: devices are provided to organisations and services, not directly to individuals.
If you're a VCSE or NHS partner
You can apply for devices if your organisation or service is based in Coventry.
- Applications to the device bank may receive a maximum of 20 devices, the number of devices which best suit your proposed activity will be identified through an initial review with us.
- Devices are securely wiped and ready to use
- Each device comes with a charger (no additional accessories)
- Applications are reviewed and based on how the devices will support your community
When applying, we'll ask how you plan to use the devices to make a real difference for the people you support. If you'd like help with your application, the #CovConnects team is here for you. Apply using this online form. [https://myaccount.coventry.gov.uk/en/service/_CovConnects___Device_Bank_application]
Devices from Cov, for Cov
Through accessing devices from the #CovConnects Device Bank, you can help tackle the digital divide in the city.
The issue
Without digital access, everyday life gets harder and inequality increases.
Across the city:
- 6 in 10 residents have no laptop or PC access
- 14,000 individuals are offline completely
Examples of individual barriers:
- "I wish I could call my family but my phone is broken."
- "I have detention again as I couldn't get online to do my homework."
The Journey
- Working devices are donated by local businesses and partners
- Devices are professionally data-wiped to industry standard and refurbished at the Council House
- Devices are redistributed to local partners including community hubs, charities and libraries
- Devices are used citywide, helping residents to use them safely, confidently, and meaningfully
The impact
- 6,000+ devices distributed to date
- 190+ bespoke digital inclusion programmes
- 110+ digital inclusion hubs citywide
Join us as a partner to help connect our community!
#CovConnects
Upskill your team
You don't need to be a digital expert to support others, you just need the right support behind you. Whether you're just getting started or already delivering digital support, we can help build your team's confidence and skills.
We offer a range of flexible opportunities, including:
- Training sessions
- Informal network meetings
- Peer learning and shared practice
Digital Champion training
If you're looking for something more structured, our Digital Champion Training can help your team feel confident supporting others.
In these sessions, you'll:
- Better understand the barriers people face
- Learn simple ways to support residents
- Build confidence in having digital conversations
Digital Champions aren't tech experts - they're approachable, supporting people who help others take their next step.
- Sessions last 1-2 hours
- Delivered online or in person
- Suitable for staff and volunteers
We've supported lots of amazing partners across the city, here's what they had to say about the session:
Jodie Cotterrell, Head of Operations / DCEO at Carers Trust Heart of England, said:
"The combination of direct workshops for young carers and practical training for staff has made the partnership especially valuable. It has supported both immediate engagement and longer-term development within the service and has strengthened our ability to communicate with young carers and families in ways that feel relevant and accessible."
Daksha Piparia, Volunteer Manager at Coventry Independent Advice Service, told us:
“We have been supported by the team at #CovConnects for several years now including attending sessions for the Digital Champions Networks and the Digital Health Literacy Workshop. The support and training have been excellent, delivered with expertise and warmth. It has been valuable to meet other organisations who provide similar support in the city. Our Community Digital team has been stronger and more equipped to deal with the everyday problems and challenges people face when it comes to digital skills as a result. We know the work we do matters and we are proud of the recognition and support we receive from the #CovConnects.”
James Gough, Project Officer at WATCH Charity, had this to say:
"The informal and interactive approach really helped me to absorb the learning. The innovative resources and discussions on key issues, cover all the angles of digital inclusion."
Register your interest by completing this short form [https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Zfr8cUYHyE6bFq2S-y3hArgSPqQMkHdMvyeFsZJrMMFUMzdJUTQ5MFBIUjVRUVNESzNLUE5MOUFUVS4u] to let us know more about your needs.
Lunch and Learn sessions
Our monthly Lunch and Learn webinars are open to all partners. These relaxed, informal sessions are a space for you to:
- Hear about what's happening across the city
- Share your experiences
- Learn from other partners and guest speakers
We are currently organising the next Lunch and Learn webinar, if you would like to attend our next event, please confirm by emailing us at CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk]
National Digital Inclusion Network
Members of the National Digital Inclusion Network provide safe spaces for digitally excluded people to access free help. They offer digital inclusion support such as free mobile data through the National Databank, or offer digital skills support through the Learn My Way [https://www.goodthingsfoundation.org/our-services/learn-my-way] platform.
No matter where you are in the UK, or what your organisation does. If you want to deliver free digital inclusion support, you can join the National Digital Inclusion Network.
If you’re a member and ready to build on your work, you can join the National Digital Inclusion Network, led by Good Things Foundation. Check outâ¯theirâ¯Eventbrite page [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/national-digital-inclusion-network-39978795223]â¯to learn more.
As a member, you can access:
- Free mobile data through the National Databank
- The Learn My Way digital skills platform
- Funding opportunities and grants
- A national network of organisations like yours
Learn more about the benefits of becoming a member of Good Things Foundation's National Digital Inclusion Network. [https://www.goodthingsfoundation.org/our-services]
Joining the National Digital Inclusion Network
Organisations interested in joining the National Digital Inclusion Network can find out more on how to register by visiting this page of Good Things Foundation's website. [https://www.goodthingsfoundation.org/network]
#CovConnects
Strengthen your offer
You’re already doing important work, we’re here to help you build on it.
From funding opportunities to ready-to-use resources, we can support you to expand your digital offer in a way that works for you.
Funding opportunities - you can access external funding to support your digital inclusion work.
National Digital Inclusion Network
Good Things Foundation is one of the leading digital inclusion charities in the UK. With a network of over 5,000 organisations throughout the country, this network is known as the National Digital Inclusion Network.â¯
Joining the network gives you access to tools and funding to grow your support, including:
- National Databank – free SIM cards for people who need data
- Learn My Way – free digital skills learning platform
- Grants and funding to expand your work
Learn how to join the network [https://www.goodthingsfoundation.org/our-services]
Support with funding applications
If you’re looking for funding but don’t know where to start, you’re not alone.
#CovConnects works closely with the Council’s Community Resilience Team, who can support you to:
- Find relevant funding
- Strengthen your applications
- Develop your ideas
Email: communityresilience@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:communityresilience@coventry.gov.uk]
Vodafone - charities.connected
Charities can apply for free SIM cards with data calls and texts, to support the people they work with.
These can be used in ways that suit your service. For example:
- Supporting individuals by helping individuals get online and stay connected
- Running drop-in sessions
- Enabling access to online services
Vodafone distributes SIM cards through charities, not individuals. Individuals who’d like help getting mobile data, should checkâ¯ourâ¯#CovConnects map [https://padlet.com/covconnectsdigital/covconnects-venue-map-jah7wq5hx76lbmuh]â¯to find out who distributesâ¯National Databank [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/cov-connects/connectivity-devices/3]â¯SIM cards.â¯
Find out more on Vodafone’s website [https://www.vodafone.co.uk/mobile/everyone-connected/charities-connected]
Showing your worth
You’re already making a difference in your community, we want to help you share that. #CovConnects can support you to showcase your work and celebrate the impact you’re having.
We can:
- Visit your service or meet online to learn more about what you do
- Help turn your work into stories, case studies or videos
- Share your impact across our networks
This helps raise awareness, inspire others, and highlight the important role you play in tackling the digital divide.
If you’ve got something you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Book time with the #CovConnects team [https://outlook.office.com/book/BookingwithCovConnects@coventryCC.onmicrosoft.com/].
#CovConnects
Digital inclusion tools
You can help people build their digital skills in lots of different ways, from friendly drop-in sessions to more structured courses and more.
Below are some useful tools, places to signpost people, and tips to help residents feel confident and safe online.
Tools to support local people
You can support residents in different ways, there’s no single approach. People learn best in different settings, it’s about offering options that work for them.
In-person sessions and courses
If you want to refer or signpost people, there are free courses available across the city through Coventry Adult Education. [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/adult-education]
These include:
- Introductory digital skills
- Support with everyday tasks like emails and online forms
- Courses for people who speak English as an additional language
Run digital drop-in sessions
You can create a simple, welcoming space where people feel comfortable asking questions and building their confidence. Digital drop-in sessions are informal, one-to-one support sessions that you can run in a way that suits your setting and the people you support. There’s no set format - just a safe space, a friendly face, and time to help.
You might support people with:
- Setting up an email address
- Online shopping
- Using the NHS App
- Practising with a mouse and keyboard
- Searching the internet
- Getting started with a smartphone
These sessions are a great way to meet people where they are and help them take small, meaningful steps.
| Location | Day | Time |
|---|---|---|
| WATCH Centre, CV1 5LZ⯠| Mondays | 10am to midday |
| Holbrooks Community Care Association, CV6 4DE | Fridays | 1pm to 2pm |
|
Coventryâ¯Intendentâ¯Advice Service – Community Digital Skills Sessions at Foleshill, Tile Hill and Stoke Libraries
|
Thursdays⯠| 10am to midday and 1pm to 3pm |
Tools you can use
You don’t have to create everything from scratch. There are plenty of free tools and resources you can use to support your sessions.
- Learn My Way [https://www.learnmyway.com/] – free, easy-to-follow courses covering essential digital skills
- AbilityNet – My Computer My Way [https://mcmw.abilitynet.org.uk/] – step-by-step guides to help people adapt devices to their needs
- Age UK [https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/work-learning/technology-internet/internet-security/] – practical support on getting started and staying safe online
- Digital Unite [https://www.digitalunite.com/technology-guides] – a wide range of guides, including ‘easy read’ options
- SCVO Skills Check Up [https://skills.checkup.scot/] – simple tools to help people assess their digital skills
You can use these resources during sessions or share them with residents to use in their own time.
Helping people stay safe online
Supporting someone to get online also means helping them feel safe and confident. These links can help you build online safety into your support in a simple, practical way.
You can use these resources:
- UK Safer Internet Centre [https://saferinternet.org.uk/] – guidance for supporting children and young people
- Get Safe Online [https://www.getsafeonline.org/] – advice for individuals and organisations
- National Cyber Security Centre [https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/advice-guidance/you-your-family] – simple steps for staying secure online
- Online safety for children [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/onlinesafety]â¯- safe practices while onlineâ¯
- Cyber Aware [https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online] – tools to build a personal cyber action plan
Your questions answered - Device Bank
We want to support any applicant partners to understand the #CovConnects Device Bank process.
Please find below a collection of frequently asked questions.
If you have a question that does not appear on the list below, reach out to us over email at CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk]
Who does the #CovConnects Device Bank support?
Currently, the #CovConnects Device Bank supports organisations that are based in Coventry that are voluntary, community, charity and social enterprise organisations to access digital devices, which can be distributed to communities and residents.
What type of devices does the #CovConnetcs Device Bank provide?
A range of devices are available as part of the initiative, including laptops and smartphones. You can apply for a minimum of 4 up to 20 devices in one application. The team will discuss this with you when you apply.
#CovConnects offers Mi-Fi Units, which are small, portable devices which allow people to use 4g to connect to the internet. Each of the units comes with 2 year's worth of unlimited data, enabling residents to connect to the digital world.
You can learn more about what type of devices #CovConnects [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/cov-connects/device-bank] offer on our page.
As a resident of Coventry can I apply for a single laptop?
Unfortunately no, you can find support [https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/1rMbC48lkSoE6xYsBimS41JtO?domain=coventry.gov.uk] using the #CovConnects Map:
The #CovConnects Map [https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/fhoUC58mlSv3R1gs2svSkVvYS?domain=padlet.com] shows where you can access free digital support in your area. From free SIM cards with data thanks to the National Databank, to in-person skills sessions and more, there is something for everyone on the map. You can search by postcode to find the closest digital support in your area.
I would like to get in contact with #CovConnects before applying to get a better understanding about what #CovConnects offers. How do I do this?
Applicants are more than welcome to get in contact with #CovConnects before applying with any questions and queries you might have, via our email CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk]
I need to reschedule my device collection, how do I do this?
If you miss your collection, it is important that you inform the #CovConnects team that you will not be able to collect your devices. This is so that we can reschedule a new collection date and time for you.
If you are unable to collect your device, please email the team at CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk]
Can I donate devices/electronics to #CovConnects?
Currently, our Device Bank is not best suited to take in donations from residents.
You could look into recycling them safely. A great way to recycle any of your electronics safely can be found by looking on the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/rubbish-recycling/international-e-day] (WEEE) page of the council website.
How can we get in touch with the #CovConnects team?
If you have a question regarding #CovConnects then please email the team at CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:CovConnectsDigital@coventry.gov.uk]
Our organisation needs help with supporting residents to get connected, how can #CovConnects help?
#CovConnects has a range of ways to support your organisation with connectivity. On the #CovConnects page we have a Connectivity and Equipment [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/cov-connects/connectivity-devices] section. As well as Mi-Fi Units, which are from the #CovConnects Device Bank which you can find more information about places people can visit on the #CovConnects page. [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/cov-connects] Furthermore, you can find information about the National Databank [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/cov-connects/connectivity-devices/3] and who distributes free sim cards, on the #CovConnects page.
Our organisation needs help with assistive technology, how can #CovConnects help?
#CovConnects has a range of ways to support your organisation with pathways to assistive technology. On the #CovConnects page we have the Resources for Organisations [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/cov-connects/resources-organisations/2] section. Another great resource is the Ability Net [https://abilitynet.org.uk/] website and you can also get in contact to with them through their helpline on 0300 180 0028.