Digitober (external link) is Greater Manchester’s annual celebration of digital inclusion, innovation, and empowerment. It runs throughout October and aligns with Get Online Week, promoting access to digital tools, skills, and services for all residents. Led by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Digital, it showcases how councils and communities are using technology to improve lives whilst ensuring all Greater Manchester (GM) residents can Get Online (external link).
To follow our team online, check out our Digital Wigan pages on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Wigan Council is proud to offer a regular programme, providing relaxed and inclusive spaces for people to learn about technology and meet others. Why not come and join us in October and Get Online.
Digitober TechMate sessions
Join our free TechMate Tea Party drop-in sessions this October and take your first step into the digital world. TechMate Tea Parties are friendly, welcoming sessions where you can get digital support, enjoy a conversation, and have a brew in a relaxed environment.
With sessions taking place across the borough, residents can drop in for free, ask questions, learn new skills, and build confidence using technology at their own pace.
Everyone is welcome. No booking required.
Digi Dens
Our Digi Dens are welcoming spaces in Family Hubs where residents can get online safely, build digital confidence, and enjoy fun, interactive activities.
- Family Hub at The Meadows: 100 - 116 Ridyard Street, Wigan, WN5 9RQ
- Family Hub at Mornington Road: Mornington Road, Hindley, WN2 4LG
- Family Hub at Formby Avenue: Formby Avenue, Atherton, M46 0HX
- Family Hub at Leigh: Walmesley Avenue, Leigh, WN7 1XL
- Family Hub at Clifton Street Community Centre: Clifton Street, Wigan, WN3 5HN
Each Digi Den offers something unique, from gaming consoles, laptop access and online safety guidance - all designed to help residents feel confident in the digital world.
Find out more about what’s on offer at our local Family Hubs.
Get Online Week - 19th to 25th October 2026
Get Online Week is the perfect opportunity to build your digital skills and discover the support available across the borough. Whether you're completely new to technology or looking to improve your confidence online, there's something for everyone.
You can:
- Join a TechMate Tea Party for friendly, face-to-face digital support
- Visit a Digi Den to use a laptop or access online services
- Explore Learn My Way, which offers free beginner-friendly online courses covering topics such as using a mouse and keyboard, setting up an email account, and browsing the internet
- Access iDEA - free online learning to develop digital, enterprise and employability skills, with courses ranging from beginner to advanced level
- Visit Wigan Libraries who offer a range of educational and recreational services - you can get online for free with access to computers and WiFi, take part in activities and learn new skills
- Find out more about courses delivered by Wigan Adult Learning and Skills, helping you learn new skills, gain qualifications and take the next step in your career
All support is designed to help residents gain confidence online and make the most of the digital world.
Are you working to support digitally excluded adults in Wigan and Leigh?
If you’re an organisation working to tackle digital exclusion, join the Digital Communities Partnership and become part of a collaborative network dedicated to improving digital access and opportunity. Connect with like-minded organisations, share best practice, and access resources, training and connectivity opportunities to help more residents get online and thrive in the digital world.
Access for All is Digital Wigan's device gifting scheme, providing eligible residents with a digital device, free connectivity and skills support. The programme helps people access essential online services, stay connected and build the confidence they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Please note: Access for All is a professional referral-only programme and is not open to direct applications from residents. Referrals can be made by council teams, community organisations, charities and other professionals supporting residents who are digitally excluded.
Need help with mobile data?
Eligible Wigan residents can access free mobile data, texts and calls through the National Databank (external link) by visiting a TechMate session or Digi Den. Our team can check eligibility and help you get connected.
Find out what we have been doing to support residents to get online
Our Digital Wigan Stories show how Wigan Council have been helping people to get online with access to devices, data, and a network of partners working together to support people with digital learning and skills.