Why do we need to create a new network of net:gain centres? Can't existing local ICT support organisations help build VCS ICT capacity?

net:gain is not creating a new network of centres. The net:gain service will be delivered through the existing voluntary and community sector UK online centres.

This exploits the £400m that the government has invested in building the UK online centre network, offering national coverage, quality assurance and extra funding and support from Ufi Ltd, the national stakholder for UK online.

UK online centres already work with other providers; indeed, in research published by NAVCA in 2004, 20% of ICT support suppliers identified from the voluntary, community and public sectors are UK online centres or close partners. Several of the most successful net:gain centres have won funding for other roles under ChangeUp, for example, as Assessibility Champions for the ICT Hub. This illustrates the competence that UK online centres bring to ChangeUp.

net:gain offers a flexible approach. It can be delivered in areas that lack quality VCS-based ICT capacity building support providers, and it can bring together a range of initiatives in collaboration, driving up demand for a range of programmes and projects, rather than competing with established local providers.