Why is net:gain delivered through UK online centres?

There are approximately 2000 UK online centres operating in the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) in England. Often strategically placed in the most deprived wards, over 500,000 people a year can access a local UK online centre (1).

The centres chosen to deliver net:gain have up to 5 years' experience in the delivery of ICT training and support within the sector. They have an innovative approach to working, which has seen many centres develop beyond their original remit of ‘ICT learning centres’ to take a proactive role in working with their local VCS. Centres can build on their strong local network, and the understanding they have of the sector, and of running their own systems, to support delegates through the net:gain programme.

net:gain also offers delegates a series of tailored local benefits and discounts (eg access to further training; technical support; bureau services etc), and UK online centres can provide this from their existing portfolio of services, and their contacts with a wide range of local partners, those working in ChangeUp as well as in other sectors.

Many UK online centres already have a recognised quality mark, or are working towards one, and have to meet net:gain quality criteria and undergo training and development. This ensures that net:gain is offered at a consistent level of high quality and that delegates across the country have access to first class support and guidance. UK online centres are managed by Ufi Ltd, a major funder of the net:gain programme. Membership of the UK online network is now open to new centres which fulfil the criteria.

(1) UK online Annual Report, December 2003