Digital skills enable us to use devices including computers, laptops and smartphones to access the internet and lots more. We're here to help you find the support you need to get access to digital skills and equipment accross Bolton.
Digital Drop-Ins at Bolton Library and Museum Services
If you need help with your laptop, tablet or smartphone call in to a Digital Drop-In at one of our community libraries. There's a drop in at each of the listed libraries once a month and there's no need to book. Just call in for basic digital support.
To find out more about the range of digital support available in Bolton download our NEW support guide!
Digital Support in Bolton Guide
To find out how to get to your chosen drop in location, click the library name:
Free data and low cost Wi-Fi
National Databank
If you are 18 + years old and from a low income household, and can answer yes to one or more of the statements below you are eligible for a free 20GB data/calls and texts SIM via the National Databank.
Does one or more of the following apply to you?
- I have no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
- AND/OR I have no or insufficient access to the internet when away from the home
- AND/OR I cannot afford your existing monthly contract or top up
To arrange an appointment to collect a SIM please complete the online National Databank free data application form or call 01204 332853
Download the National Databank leaflet
Low cost Wi-Fi
Many internet providers have social tariffs for those who need to access low cost contracts. They don't promote these widely but the Digital, Employment and Skills team can help you navigate the avialble offers.
Email digitalhelp@bolton.gov.uk or call 01204 332853 and ask to speak to a member of the DES team.
UCAN Centres
Helpful and friendly staff provide a little bit of everything in Bolton's UCAN centres, so no matter what you are looking for or what support you need they're the right place for you!
There are centres across Bolton - click here to find your nearest UCAN centre.
In most centres you'll be able to find:
- A friendly welcome
- Help finding you a job
- Free use of the internet and computers
- Training courses
- Access to social activities and community groups
- Help with housing issues and benefits
- Health and wellbeing support and advice
- Help with money matters
- Free use of the phone
- And lots more- all for FREE.
Free to use computers and Wi-Fi access
Bolton Libraries
Visit your local library for access to computers and Wi-FI free of charge. You can use a library computer up to one hour free of charge with a small charge for any subsequent time a computer is used. If you are job seeking please let a member of staff know and we will be able to add time to your session free of charge.
If you have your own device and need access to the Internet, all of Bolton's libraries have free Wi-Fi available. Ask a member of staff for help to connect your device.
If you need help to use a computer, why not book a free one to one session with one of our Computer Mentors? Call 01204 332853 or Email: libraries@bolton.gov.uk to book.
Visit the Bolton Library and Museum Services website to find out where your nearest library is.
IT Centres and Wi-Fi Hotspots
Click the map below to see where you can access Wi-Fi and IT equipment in Bolton.
Help to buy devices and connectivity
FIX IT at BAND
The wonderful volunteers at FIX IT at BAND (Building a New Direction) run courses for people living in the Bolton area with a lived experience of mental health about how to refurbish and repair IT equipment.
They also offer a repair service and sell PCs and laptops to those on a low income.
BAND advertise refurbished devices on their Facebook Page. Follow them to see their latest listings.
