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Details (3) Details (3) This project will be funded under Measure 2.3 of the Blackpool ERDF Action Plan, Developing an Inclusive Information Society. The project will fund two job roles, an ERDF focused project manager and content development/training role as part of its funding. This project will create a readily accessible ICT framework that will encourage individuals and communities to access and share information through a dedicated and specifically targeted web based system. This project will seek to help members of eligible wards understand the need for ICT awareness as an essential life skill and how and why becoming part of the information society will personally benefit them. This understanding will be focussed upon two readily identifiable groups, these are: For those members of eligible wards who can use ICT software but need better access to facilities, “I-Can but I need better access.” For those members of eligible wards who can’t use ICT software but would like to and can see the benefits of its use. “I-CAN’T but I want to.” The provision of the kiosks will provide the access to information and support networks using the established Council’s new Customer First Centre based in Talbot a fully eligible ERDF ward.  The community virtual environment and content creation service will provide the vehicle for engagement and the skills in how to use the technologies.  The use of the other funded ERDF ICT related projects, e.g. ICT centre at Layton Library, will compliment and add value to this project.  This demonstrates a very joined-up approach to maximising the use of the limited funds and resources available. The provision of Kiosks will provide easy local access to information and networks of support already established as well as link to the Community Wise portal that this project will create. Community Wise will provide a tool for engagement by residents with other residents and community organisations and allow for the improvement in skills and technological use to be demonstrated by users. This project therefore has strong, clear links to other ERDF funded projects such as the Television Studio based at the CLC as it will allow for the use of skills gained via one project to be utilised on another. This demonstrates a very joined up approach to maximising the use of the limited funds and resources that are available. The locally based e-Community Partnership actively encourages the use of electronic and digital services as a means of promoting life long learning and improved job opportunities for members of deprived wards. It also recommends access through localised information points, such as ICT kiosks and through use of specifically targeted user programmes such as the earlier developments through CommunityWise, and now Blackpool4Me. This project is therefore of fundamental importance to the Blackpool e-Community strategy as it will provide the flexibility to better access electronic information and services and pioneer the development of a virtual community environment.