A New Initiative from Cohesive Society CIC
Across the UK, public services are moving rapidly online. GP appointments are booked digitally. Prescriptions are ordered online. Universal Credit, pensions, and PIP claims require internet access. Even reading an official letter often means logging into an online portal.
For many BAME adults aged 45 and above, this shift has created a quiet but serious challenge.
At Cohesive Society CIC, we are launching a new initiative in West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire to respond directly to this growing need:
Digital Confidence & Essential English for BAME Adults (45+)
This project is designed to empower adults from Bangladeshi, Indian, Pakistani, Somalian, Ugandan, Arab and other minority communities with the practical English and digital skills required to live independently and confidently in modern Britain.
Why This Project Is Needed
We regularly meet community members who:
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Struggle to read hospital letters or official correspondence
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Depend on their children to book GP appointments
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Feel anxious about logging into DWP accounts
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Avoid online banking due to fear of making mistakes
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Cannot order prescriptions online
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Feel embarrassed asking for help with basic digital tasks
As services become “digital by default,” those without skills or confidence risk exclusion, dependency, and isolation.
This is not just a technology issue. It is an issue of dignity, privacy, and equality.
What We Aim to Achieve
Through structured weekly sessions delivered in a supportive community setting, this project will:
Improve Basic English Skills
Participants will learn how to:
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Read official letters
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Understand hospital and GP correspondence
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Respond to emails and written communication appropriately
Build Digital Confidence
Learners will gain hands-on experience using:
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PCs and laptops
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Smartphones
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Email platforms
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Online forms and service portals
Access Essential Public Services
Participants will be guided step-by-step to:
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Book GP and hospital appointments online
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Order repeat prescriptions
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Log into DWP accounts
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Check Universal Credit, Pension, and PIP information
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Navigate government websites confidently
Promote Financial Inclusion
We will support safe and practical use of:
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Online banking
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Online shopping
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Secure password management
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Scam awareness and fraud prevention
Encourage Positive Digital Engagement
Participants will also learn how to:
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Read books online in their own language
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Watch educational content on YouTube
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Access culturally relevant films and media
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Stay connected with family and community
Who Will Benefit
This initiative is specifically designed for:
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BAME adults aged 45+
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Individuals with limited English literacy
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Older migrants who rely on family members for digital tasks
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Isolated individuals at risk of digital exclusion
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People navigating the UK benefits and healthcare systems for the first time
Many participants currently depend on children or relatives to manage important matters. While family support is valuable, constant dependency can reduce confidence and self-esteem.
Our aim is to restore independence.
The Difference It Will Make
Increased Independence and Dignity
Participants will confidently manage their own affairs—reading letters, booking appointments, and handling online accounts independently.
Better Health Outcomes
Faster access to GP appointments and prescription services reduces delays and improves wellbeing.
Financial Confidence and Security
Understanding online banking and fraud awareness protects vulnerable adults from exploitation.
Reduced Isolation
Digital skills enable communication, connection, and access to information—helping reduce loneliness and improve mental wellbeing.
Stronger Community Cohesion
Bringing together diverse ethnic communities in shared learning spaces builds trust, friendships, and mutual support across Northamptonshire.
Future-Proof Skills
These are not temporary skills. They are essential life skills for the future. As services continue to digitise, participants will be better prepared and more adaptable.
Our Delivery Approach
Sessions will combine:
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Basic English literacy practice
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Practical, hands-on digital training
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Real-life demonstrations using genuine scenarios
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Multilingual support where needed
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Clear, step-by-step printed guidance materials
All sessions will be delivered in a culturally sensitive and welcoming environment where participants feel respected, encouraged, and safe to ask questions.
A Northamptonshire-Focused Commitment
Cohesive Society CIC has long been committed to strengthening community resilience across Northamptonshire. This initiative reflects our belief that no one—regardless of age, background, or language—should be left behind in an increasingly digital society.
Digital confidence is not a luxury.
It is a modern necessity.
We look forward to working with partners, local authorities, and community stakeholders across West and North Northamptonshire to make this vision a reality.
If you would like to collaborate, refer participants, or support this initiative, please contact us through our website.
Together, we can build confidence, independence, and cohesion
