Barking and Dagenham Libraries, in partnership with Ekota Academy, are proud to launch the Digital Inclusion Project – a programme designed to help local residents get connected, gain confidence with technology, and access essential digital services. This initiative is fully funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). Across our libraries, new Digital Inclusion Hubs are now open, offering free support, loan devices, and guidance for anyone who wants to build their digital skills. For full details, please visit the libraries website. Borrow a Laptop or Tablet As part of the project, residents can now borrow laptops and tablets for free through our new Device Loan Scheme. Whether you need to apply for a job, help your children with homework, manage your finances, or learn new skills, having access to the right device can make a real difference. Library Membership Is All You Need To borrow a device or access digital skills help, you must be a library member. Membership is free, quick, and easy. As a member, you can: Borrow a laptop or tablet Access free data packages Attend digital skills classes Get support from trained Digital Champions Use library computers and Wi‑Fi Enjoy all other library services and activities Not a member yet?Just speak to staff at any participating library, and we’ll help you join – or you can sign up online in minutes. What the Project Provides Our Digital Inclusion Project has been designed to support the community in multiple ways: 📘 Digital Skills Training Free classes for beginners and learners who want to build confidence using computers, smartphones and the internet. 🙋 Digital Champions Friendly, trained volunteers available in libraries to offer one‑to‑one help with everyday digital tasks. 📶 Free Data Packages 1,200 data packages available for residents who need help staying connected at home. 💻 Device Loan Scheme Borrow laptops and tablets from your local library – ideal for learning, job‑seeking, online applications and staying in touch. Why Digital Inclusion Matters Digital inclusion ensures that everyone—regardless of age, background or experience—can use technology confidently, safely and independently.This means having: The skills to navigate the online world The devices needed to learn, work and connect The internet access required to stay online A digitally included community can apply for jobs, access public services, support children with schoolwork, stay connected with family, and manage everyday tasks more easily.

MMRV is now part of the NHS routine childhood vaccination programme, replacing the MMR vaccine. It protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox. Chickenpox is very common and can sometimes lead to serious complications, so vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious illness as children grow. You don’t need to do anything — your GP will be in touch when your child is due. 🔗 https://nhs.uk/mmrv

Looking for fun, healthy, and exciting things to do during the winter holidays? Barking and Dagenham’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme is here! From sports camps and dance workshops to creative arts and adventure activities, there’s something for every child and young person. Each session includes a healthy lunch, so you can enjoy a great day out while staying active and nourished. 📅 Dates: Monday 22 December – Tuesday 30 December🎯 Age Groups: 4 to 16 years📍 Venues: Across Barking and Dagenham ✅ Book your place now: https://lbbd.gov.uk/HAF Spaces are limited – don’t miss out!  

📚 Introducing The Book Exchange! 🌍Share a book. Take a book. Love the planet. 💚 Got a book you’ve finished reading? Leave it on our Book Exchange shelf and pick up a new story to enjoy – for free! By swapping books, you’re not just sharing stories – you’re helping the environment: ✅ Reducing waste✅ Cutting down on paper use✅ Giving books a second life Find a Book Exchange shelf at: 📍 Dagenham Library and Family Hub 📍 Barking Learning Centre Community and Family Hub 📍 Valence Library Community Hub 📍 Thames Community Hub 📍 Chadwell Heath & Whalebone Community Hub 📍 Marks Gate Community and Family Hub 📍 Discovery Centre, Eastbrookend Country Park Let’s read, share, and recycle together! 🌱 More information at https://libraries.lbbd.gov.uk/digital-content/libraries/book-exchange

Has your child missed their vaccination at school?