Someone you know need help with digital?

Rochdale Digital Festival on 28 February will give you a chance to find out how new technology can help you in everyday life

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As you’re reading this on a computer or smartphone, chances are you’re already familiar with using digital technology. But maybe you’d appreciate some help, or have a friend or relative who would? We all know someone who’s got a tablet or smartphone but doesn’t really make the most of it.

Don’t miss Rochdale Digital Festival on Saturday 28 February.

It’s on from 11.00am to 3.00pm at Number One Riverside in the town centre and this free event will aim to de-mystify technology and show just how useful and easy it can be.

Want to set up an email account? Or maybe you want to make video calls with Skype? Need to shop safely online or maybe set up your own Facebook page? You’ll be able to find out how at the festival. There’ll also be staff showing how to do your banking online, use social networks including Twitter, search for jobs and much more. The festival will include exhibitions and workshops to help you, and BBC Radio Manchester will be broadcasting live.

What to look out for:

FixIt Bar

Having problems with your laptop, iPad, phone or tablet? Students from Hopwood Hall College will be able to help. You’ll be able to visit them at the festivals ‘FixIt Bar’.

Find out what you can do online.

We’ll be there, along with a host of other local businesses including Marks & Spencer, Asda and Barclays Digital Eagles will be there alongside the council, showing how to browse, buy and use services online, saving you time and money.

Get connected

BT will check if you can get superfast broadband – and advise on the best value internet service provider for you.

Children’s Zone

There’s something for all the family, with a children’s area where youngsters will be able to play on an Xbox, PS3 and Wii games systems. Actors will also bring to life well known characters from classic children’s literature, as they read from the library’s eBooks collection.

Make music

Have a play on a digital piano and find out the secrets of being a professional DJ with the Vibe Youth Music project.

Improve your health

Boots staff and other health specialists will be showing how digital technology can be good for your health too – with a health MOT in the ‘Health Hub’.

Get help with your Job search

Specialists from local job centres will be on hand to help you with your digital search with UniversalJobMatch.

Learn more
If all this inspires you, Hopwood Hall College will be showcasing the latest curriculum of digital courses.

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 iPad or other tablet if you’d like some help with it. It’s going to be a fun and relaxed day and you can have as much time as you need.

To find out more click here.

Using digital technology boosts your employment prospects and helps you find work, saves money and improves children’s educational performance.

Rochdale Digital Festival, Rochdale Central Library, Saturday 28 February, 11.00am - 3.00pm.