Pauline Lyons, Wheatley Group’s Money Advice Lead, tells how GHA and the other partners in Wheatley Group, have been helping people get online in advance of Universal Credit.

THE benefits of being online – from finding work, to gaining qualifications to saving money – are clear.

But Glasgow has one of the lowest rates of internet usage in the UK.

The introduction of UC makes it more important than ever that people have the skills and confidence to go online.

As well as advising people on opening a bank account and managing their money, helping tenants access the internet is a major focus for GHA and everyone in Wheatley Group.

Everything is online with UC. Claimants need to fill in an online journal, including what they’ve done to look for work and reporting any change in their circumstances.

The online journal is also where people see their UC statement (how much they will receive) and when their next payment will be.

Any messages from the DWP, such as details about appointments, are via email.

That’s a big change for people who are used to receiving letters or talking to someone on the phone.

We know that for many of our tenants buying a computer or having broadband at home is expensive.

GHA joined forces with Glasgow Kelvin College and others to set up 36 free Click & Connect free computer learning centres across the city.

Tenants can use computers in the centres – and free wifi – and get expert advice on using the internet to log on to their online journal, as well as update their CV and look for work,

A full list of the centres is at www.gha.org.uk

The DWP can also support people to get online, and there is free internet access at local libraries and other community facilities.

Housing officers armed with mobile tablets – an ‘office in their hands’ – are doing more for tenants too. They can make appointments and coach them to go online while out in their communities.

GHA, and all the partners in Wheatley, can help people develop the online skills and confidence they need.