Bolton Wanderers has launched a new programme that will help 50 Bolton-based charities develop their digital skills. 

The Bolton Digital Skills programme started in November 2022 and will run until March 2023.

It provides learning and guidance to Bolton-based charities to help them to effectively utilise social media to raise awareness of their work.

Sharon Brittan, chairman of Bolton Wanderers said: “There are so many incredible and inspirational charities operating in Bolton and, as a club, we are passionate to support their vital work where we can.

READ MORE: Bolton boss Ian Evatt: Sharon Brittan is 'best owner in football'

“We are confident that through this innovative new programme, the organisations involved will gain the tools needed to effectively promote their work online, raise more funds and, in turn, be able to positively impact the lives of even more people in our community.”

Bolton CVS identified via a monitoring exercise that there was a lack of skills, confidence, and resources in how to use digital tools as an area of concern for many of the 1,672 organisations operating in the borough. 

Following this research, a partnership formed between the club, Bolton Wanderers in the Community, Bolton CVS, and Lightful - experts in the field of training non-profits with digital skills – and the technology company that will lead the programme.

READ MORE: Bolton Wanderers in the Community reaches thousands across the borough

Dawn Yates-Obe, chief executive officer of Bolton CVS said: “Bolton CVS is delighted to been able to partner with BWFC and Lightful to bring this incredibly valuable opportunity to Bolton. 

“The support of well-established and recognised organisations such as the club, and skills and expertise Lightful can offer is vital to the continued growth and evolution of our vibrant and diverse voluntary, community, and social enterprise sector.

“It is an example of positive cross-sector partnership in action.

“Bolton CVS is committed to and excited about supporting a stronger digital presence across the sector.”

The Bolton Digital Skills programme is built on Lightful’s flagship BRIDGE programme and will enable charities to access the support needed to transform their approach to digital.

With an increased awareness of their work, the hope is that fundraising levels will be raised across the board for the charities taking part.

Vinay Nair, CEO and co-founder of Lightful said: "So many charities in Bolton do vital work - yet they often struggle to convey this effectively online.

“Lightful has worked with thousands of charities across the UK and around the world, helping them to create a digital strategy, improve their storytelling and raise awareness and funds for their work.

READ MORE: Bolton Fund grants available to build aspirations and share skills

“We are thrilled to be part of this partnership with Bolton Wanderers in the Community and Bolton CVS and we are excited to support these brilliant charities to make the most of the power of digital and deliver even more impact in their communities." 

The Bolton Digital Skills programme will culminate in Bolton Wanderers’ Unity Festival in the spring, during which charities will have the chance to showcase their work at the club and celebrate their roles in making Bolton a better place to live.

Sanctioned and funded by Bolton Wanderers’ board of directors, the hope is the programme will act as a blueprint for future, similar initiatives, assisting more organisations to grow their supporter base and deliver positive impact across communities.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18.