TechPathways: Skills & Employment for Diverse Communities
A New Digital Skills and Employment Support Programme in Northampton
In today’s rapidly changing world, essential services are increasingly moving online. From booking GP appointments and managing NHS records to applying for benefits through the Department for Work and Pensions, digital skills have become essential for everyday life. Yet many people—particularly adults aged 35+, older residents, and pensioners—still face significant barriers to using technology confidently.
To address this growing challenge, Cohesive Society (CIC) is proud to announce the launch of a new community program:
TechPathways: Skills & Employment for Diverse Communities
Beginning 2nd May 2026, this 12-month training programme will provide structured digital literacy, employment skills training, mentoring, and confidence-building support for residents across Northampton and the wider Northamptonshire area.
The initiative is designed especially for adults aged 35 and above, including pensioners and members of diverse communities, who wish to improve their digital skills, become more independent in accessing services, and explore new employment opportunities.
Many people currently rely on family members or community volunteers to help them complete online tasks such as filling in forms, checking benefits, booking medical appointments, or applying for jobs. TechPathways aims to change that by providing practical, friendly, and supportive training that empowers individuals to manage these tasks independently.
What Participants Will Learn
The programme focuses on practical skills that people use in their daily lives and in the workplace. Participants will receive guidance and hands-on training in:
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Practical use of computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones
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Email creation and management
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Using the NHS App
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Booking GP and hospital appointments online
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Online banking basics and digital safety awareness
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Navigating Department for Work and Pensions portals, including:
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Universal Credit
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Pension services
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Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
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Uploading documents and responding to official online communications
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Using bilingual translation and transcription tools
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Understanding social media safely and responsibly
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Job search skills and CV preparation
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Interview techniques and employment agency registration
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Guidance on immigration and passport application processes
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Health and Safety training
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Introduction to the warehouse and semi-manual employment sectors
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Forklift awareness and workplace regulations
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Workplace discipline, etiquette, and professional behaviour
Programme Structure
The TechPathways programme will run for 12 months, offering two training sessions per week, each lasting two hours. This consistent structure allows participants to learn gradually and build confidence step by step.
Phase 1 – Digital Foundations (Months 1–3)
Participants will begin by learning the basic digital skills necessary to navigate the modern world.
Topics include:
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Basic computer and smartphone operation
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Email account setup and management
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Google search skills
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Internet safety and scam awareness
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Social media basics
This stage ensures that all learners start with a strong foundation.
Phase 2 – Essential Online Services (Months 4–6)
Once participants gain basic digital confidence, the programme moves into practical online services used in everyday life.
Topics include:
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NHS App usage and healthcare access
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Online GP and hospital appointment systems
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Online banking basics
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Accessing DWP portals including Pension, PIP and Universal Credit
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Uploading documents and managing official correspondence
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Using bilingual translation tools for communication
This stage is particularly important for people who struggle with digital bureaucracy or language barriers.
Phase 3 – Employment and Career Skills (Months 7–9)
In the third phase, the programme shifts focus to employment readiness.
Participants will learn:
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How to prepare a professional CV
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How to use online job search platforms
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Registering with employment agencies
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Interview preparation and mock interviews
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Communication and confidence-building skills
These sessions aim to support individuals who are seeking employment, career changes, or re-entry into the workforce after a long break.
Phase 4 – Workplace Readiness (Months 10–12)
The final phase prepares participants for real workplace environments.
Training will include:
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Health and Safety awareness
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Manual handling basics
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Introduction to warehouse operations
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Forklift awareness training (theoretical)
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Workplace discipline and etiquette
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Confidence and resilience building
This stage helps participants transition from training into real job opportunities.
Who Should Join?
This programme is particularly suitable for:
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Adults aged 35+
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Older residents and pensioners
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Members of Bangladeshi, Somali, Arab, Middle Eastern, African and wider BAME communities
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People who want to improve digital confidence
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Individuals looking to return to work
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Residents who struggle with online services or digital forms
No prior computer knowledge is required. The programme is designed to be friendly, practical, and supportive.
Our Vision
Through TechPathways, Cohesive Society CIC aims to reduce digital exclusion and open new opportunities for individuals who may feel left behind by rapid technological change.
By improving digital skills, confidence, and employment readiness, the programme seeks to strengthen independence, economic participation, and social inclusion within Northampton’s diverse communities.
Technology should empower people—not exclude them. TechPathways is designed to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the digital society.
How to Register
Places on the programme are limited and early registration is recommended.
If you or someone you know would benefit from this training, please contact us:
Email: info@cohesivesociety.org
Phone: 07932 484 632
Website: www.cohesivesociety.org
Participants can register themselves or be referred by family members, community organisations, or support workers.
Join the Journey
Digital skills are no longer optional—they are essential for everyday life, employment, and independence. Through TechPathways, Cohesive Society CIC hopes to guide residents on a journey from digital uncertainty to digital confidence.
We warmly invite the people of Northampton and Northamptonshire to join this exciting program and take the next steps toward greater opportunity and empowerment.
TechPathways begins on 2nd May 2026. Register today and start your journey toward new skills, confidence, and employment opportunities.
