What is it?

‘Connecting Dorset has been an innovative countywide project, which aimed to connect all of Dorset’s Parish and Town Councils plus 120 of Dorset’s 200 village halls to broadband. The project encouraged local councils and halls to develop the advantages of Internet access for the benefit of their communities. At the end of the procurement phase 140 councils were connected with approx 40 halls.

 

How does Connecting Dorset support parish and town councils and village and community halls ?

The project supplied a package of telephone connection, broadband wireless router, laptop with external monitor, keyboard and mouse, choice of colour multifunction or black & white laser printer, training, standard email address and limited, ongoing support.  Halls also receive a contribution towards the first year running costs.  Council’s equipment are located with their Parish / Town Clerk

 

How do Dorset’s rural communities benefit?

This project brings the rural communities of Dorset into the 21st Century.  The new computer equipment makes parish and town councils better placed to serve their communities and deliver the benefits of

e-government.

 

The telephone, broadband and computer facilities make village and community halls more attractive to hirers and increase their potential income. Local people can make use of the equipment and broadband connection in their local village or community hall to access the Internet.  Those lacking technical skills are assisted by volunteer mentors.

 

What will the Council or Village Halls contribute?

The Council or Hall will be responsible for the running costs (phone line and broadband).  Halls are required to provide four hours a week for public access and volunteers to act as administrator and mentors for those that use the equipment.