Get more from technology at Rochdale Digital Festival

Don’t miss Rochdale Digital Festival on Saturday 27 February at Number One Riverside. This free event will de-mystify technology, showing how useful it can be, and if you’ve already got some digital skills – what you can do with them.

Whether it’s how to set up an email account, making video calls, shopping safely online or setting up your own Facebook page, you’ll be able to find out how. Staff will show you how to do your banking online, use social networks including Twitter, search for jobs, shop and more. Organised by Rochdale Borough Council, the festival is sponsored by specialist IT provider Optevia and BBC Radio Manchester will be broadcasting live.

Why digital technology is important

• Helps you find work - vacancies in digital technology are rapidly increasing in Greater Manchester.
• Saves money – its quicker and cheaper online.
• Improves children’s educational performance.

Things to look out for

Help Bar

Having problems with your laptop, phone or tablet? An 02 Guru and students from Hopwood Hall College will help.

Skills and Careers Zone

Looking to work with digital technology? Get advice and help on finding a new job, training or an apprenticeship.

Creative and Community Zone

Highlighting local digital projects. Play interactive computer games and learn about digital animation.

Get connected

Check if you can get superfast broadband and find the best value internet service provider for you.

Free masterclasses

Experts including Google, reveal tricks of the trade in bite-sized sessions packed with useful tips. Topics covered include making the most of Google, building a better website, film making, animation and online security. No booking required.

Rochdale Coder Dojo

Aimed at under 18s (parents welcome too) - a self-led community group, supported by skilled mentors to learn through play and fun with digital kit, inventing and creating. The latest equipment will be provided, the sky is the limit.

My Account

Find out about the new faster, safer and flexible way to access council services online.

Little Bits

Like Lego but with electronic fun embedded.

Learn more

If all this inspires you, learning and training providers will be showcasing the latest curriculum of digital courses.

Star guest

Coronation Street actress Jennie McAlpine, best known for playing feisty Fiona ‘Fiz’ Brown in the ITV1 soap, will be meeting visitors from 12pm.

Councillor Daalat Ali, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community said: “There'll be friendly faces on hand to show you step-by-step just how easy it is, as well as tablets, phones and computers for you to use. You’re welcome to bring along your own tablet if you’d like help with it. The festival will also showcase the digital resources we have in the borough in a really inspiring way. It’s going to be a fun day.”

Rochdale Central Library
Number One Riverside, Smith Street
OL16 1XU

Saturday 27 February, 10am to 4pm

• Click here to find out more about the festival