Stories from the Network: MRS Independent Living & Benchill Community Centre

MRS Independent Living

MRS Independent Living are a digital inclusion hub based in London, supporting people to stay independent, active and connected to their communities.

Previous Learn My Way alumni, MRS Indepentent Living started using Learn My Way when it relaunched in 2023. Not only did the shiny prefix of ‘new’ catch their attention, but their learners had themselves made the case that Learn My Way is fun! They had tried it and enjoyed using the platform, so much so that some became Learn My Way volunteers.

As a result, the hub decided to find ways to integrate the learning tool into their overall digital inclusion program, aided by funding via a Good Things’ Digital Inclusion Capability Grant. 

Starting to use Learn My Way again has helped many learners at the hub to develop their digital skills at their own pace and build their confidence as they go.

MRS Independent Living are excited to continue using Learn My Way and to help learners progress and apply their newly developed digital skills. With the help of volunteers and peer support, their confidence continues to grow.  

Benchill Community Centre

Benchill Community Centre, based in Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester, are a digital inclusion hub supporting their diverse community with digital support and employability skills.

As their services are offered through daily drop-in sessions, Benchill Community Centre cater to all needs and personalise their support. They help their community to save money, build digital skills, apply for essential services, and access data and devices.

“Walking through the door is the hardest thing for some people so we want their experience to be as good as it can be.” – Stephen Greenwood, Organisational Manager at Benchill Community Centre.

Benchill Community Centre have been delivering digital inclusion support and building digital skills through the delivery of Learn My Way. The new version of the platform supports learners to progress more independently, able to work through topics by themselves after initial support to register an account.

Benchill Community Centre's success stories 

One of Benchill Community Centre's learners had never used a computer before attending Learn My Way sessions. Now, having built his skills, he is able to confidently use the computer, browse the internet, and log into Learn My Way on his own.

Another user, though initially quite nervous, was able to develop her skills using Learn My Way and obtained a Level 2 IT qualification. She's now onto a Level 3 IT qualification, and volunteers at Benchill Community Centre to help others to advance their skills. She feels confident with her digital skills and is able to look after the classes if the staff are occupied. 

Using Learn My Way to deliver digital inclusion support has had an incredibly positive impact on the community supported by Benchill Community Centre, helping learners learn digital skills, develop their confidence, and become more independent.