There's lots of support available to help you use our online services, and become more confident with the digital world.
We understand that not everyone is confident doing things online. You might like some support and guidance that will help you carry out digital tasks.
We want to help you:
do more online - access Council services easily through our online forms
stay informed about your local area and find the information you need at any time
improve your digital skills and stay safe online
Below is a range of services that can help.
Help at the Bedford Borough Hub
The Bedford Borough Hub is a one-stop, Bedford town-centre destination for residents who need help with Council services. The Hub offers residents access to computers, free Wi-Fi and phones. If you need extra guidance with online services, our digital assistants are on hand to offer personalised support.
Where is the Bedford Borough Hub?
The Bedford Borough Hub can be found at:
2 Horne Lane Bedford MK40 1RA
01234 267422
Opening hours
Days
Opening hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
9am - 5pm
Wednesday
10am - 5pm
Help to translate or listen to our website
Our website has a tool called ‘ReachDeck’ which is available for anyone who needs help with reading or language translation.
There are two ways to activate ReachDeck, you can either click on:
the 'Translate or Listen' button that appears at the top of every webpage (this is within the menu if you are using a mobile device or some laptops).
the orange megaphone icon which appears bottom left of every page.
When clicked, a black toolbar will appear.
Each button has a different function, allowing you to:
translate webpages into other languages
read webpages aloud
highlight words as they are read out loud
display word meanings using pictures
convert online content into MP3 files for easy listening
reduce visual stress and improve focus (screen mask with reading pane)
magnify text
provide a simplified view of a webpage
This video shows you how to use the ReachDeck tool. To enable video captions or subtitles, please click the 'Closed captions' icon.
If you need more help online
If you need help to carry out a task online, you can drop into the Customer Hub. Alternatively, call us on 01234 267422 to arrange a face-to-face digital assistance appointment or for help over the phone.
Helping you get online
Digital support at your local library
Bedford Borough libraries have free computers and Wi-Fi you can connect to, to do many tasks like applying for a school place, check your bin day or register to vote.
It’s free to become a library member and of course, being a member allows you to borrow books, magazines and explore lots of digital resources.
The Jobs Hub team help Bedford Borough residents into employment, education and training. They also provide access to computers and free Wi-Fi to help you with this.
Staying safe online is important. The following websites have some short information videos about using email, the internet, mobile phones and staying safe online.
Age UK is a great source of information for older people who are already online but want to boost their confidence.
Help adjusting your personal device
My Computer My Way is your step-by-step guide to individual adjustments you can make to your computer, laptop, tablet or smart phone to make it easier to use.