Doghaus Creative gives exposure to role of the Village Web Company in the community

When Claire Worthington established the Village Web Company in Romiley – a social enterprise that develops digital products, skills and hosts classes – little did she know how much it would change her life and the lives of the people she helps.

Having shot up through the ranks at the Post Office, an opportunity to lease a shop unit in 2005 would kickstart a whole new chapter in Claire’s life.

During a conversation between Claire and Gavin Sturgeon from neighbouring Doghaus Creative, Claire explained the vital role she plays in overcoming digital inclusion in Stockport.

When it became apparent to Gavin that Claire genuinely cares about the people in her community and wants to make a difference, he created a short docu-film to promote her work. Only last year, the government stated that digital exclusion “was a serious problem” and “set to become the UK’s largest skills gap by 2030”.

As a social enterprise, the money Claire’s and the team make building websites or doing training that people pay to come on enables them to spend their profits doing other things such as hosting work experience placements and helping people in the community with their devices.

As Claire explains, Universal credit was the first benefit that could only be applied for online. And yet, they’re the people who are most likely to be digitally excluded – not have a computer and not have access to broadband.

So, put the kettle on, your feet up and enjoy Claire’s story!

With thanks to Gavin and Doghaus Creative for Claire’s film