Following a successful year in 2013 as a Microsoft IT Youth Hub, Dorset Youth Association is thrilled to receive additional funding from UK Youth and Microsoft in recognition of their dedication to improving access of IT facilities in the community.

The Dorchester-based hub, Routes, is part of a growing network of Microsoft Hubs around Britain which aim to promote digital literacy within communities. DYA’s Hub is one of only three in the country to have been granted the accolade of ‘Golden Hub’.

As well as providing access to high-quality computing equipment in the Routes Youth Advice Centre, the funding received by DYA has enabled work on projects aimed at improving digital skills for Dorset residents.

One such project is ‘Walking In Their Shoes’ (WITS), a youth project which has been developing a fun and educational mobile ‘app’. The app will use geo-caching technology to unlock the history behind some of Dorset’s scenic hotspots, as users of the app follow the footsteps of a WW1 soldier and an Anglo-Saxon monk on a revelatory walk through the county.

In the past year, Hub Champions & WITS volunteers Edward and Ashley have also put together a comprehensive Twitter training programme for the local community.

The talented volunteers delivered their programme to a group of Dorchester & Sherbourne Safer Neighbourhood Team police officers, pictured, receiving glowing feedback for their helpfulness and patience.

The Golden Hub is committed to further IT and social media activities. They will be promoting further the Twitter training, offering more sessions in upcoming months, and bringing the WITS app towards completion.

Dorchester’s Routes continues to offer its resources, including its Wi-Fi, free to young people up to 25.

For more information on Routes and DTA projects call 01305 757027 or alternatively contact info@dorsetyouth.com

By IMOGEN GOODMAN & BECKI MOLE