An update on the support we are providing during the rail strikes
Posted on 3rd November 2022 at 09:00
We understand the impact the industrial action will have on many residents from York. This support page has information on what we are doing this week to support residents who may need to use Wi-Fi or computers to access support, work or learning.
This post has been updated with information and support regarding the industrial action on Saturday 30 September and Wednesday 4 October. We will provide further updates of any future potential industrial action as soon as we have reviewed how we can support people during these dates.
An important update on some of our services and activities
We are not expecting any impact to the number of services we will be running during the industrial action. If we have any last minute changes, we will inform anyone affected via email, text or phone call.
The easiest way to keep up-to-date on any impacts to our services and activities is by following us on social media.
Free public Wi-Fi
The CityConnect Free Wi-Fi in York service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The network allows those who live, visit and work in the area to access free WiFi from their phone, tablet or any other wireless device and is completely free to use. Log in to CityConnect free Wi-Fi via social media or by completing a simple on-line registration form when prompted.
Additionally, Explore York offer free Wi-Fi in their libraries with no time limits. It should also be available outside at libraries with gardens, during opening hours. Wi-Fi is also available at mobile libraries and in Reading Cafés.
You can find your nearest Explore York at exploreyork.org.uk
Public computers
Explore York also offer a public computer service at some of their libraries. You do need to have a library card, and any resident of York can get a library card for free. Members of the library can use our computers for free for up to two hours a day. You can split this allowance into more than one session, and sessions don’t have to be at the same library.
Members of the library can book computer sessions up to a week in advance, although booking is not compulsory.
You can find your nearest Explore York and book a computer at exploreyork.org.uk
The Keeping Digital Foundation are also providing 2 hour sessions where residents can use an IT suite to access a computer and internet. These sessions are completely free, and are being put on for Wednesday 4 October only (we are unable to provide these sessions on Saturday 30 September). To book onto a session, call 01904 900127 or email support@keepingdigital.org.uk. When calling select Digital Inclusion and book onto a support centre.
Tang Hall Digital Cafe is able to provide support in claiming train ticket refunds online. Pop in and visit our volunteers at Tang Hall Library on Saturday 30th September 10am-12pm.
Website filtering
On the PCs and Wi-Fi, you might find that some webpages have been blocked by an automatic filter. This is intended to block illegal or harmful sites, and not as a barrier to legitimate internet use. Payday loans websites are blocked as part of City of York Council’s anti-poverty strategy.
A spokesperson from the Keeping Digital Foundation, North Yorkshire’s leading digital inclusivity charitable organisation, provided this response to how the rail strikes are impacting digital inclusion services across York:
“We understand the anxiety and pressure some people may have where they are unable to visit workplaces or appointments. There are free Wi-Fi points and public computers across the city of York which we urge those affected to use.
“The Keeping Digital Foundation is also providing targeted support to help local residents who need to get online on Wednesday 4th October. Residents can also get support at the Tang Hall Digital Cafe on Saturday 30th September.
“Our team are on hand to provide digital support to help people get online. People can find out more at www.keepingdigital.org.uk”
Tagged as: Digital Inclusion
Share this post: