MACAW IT is a project based at Congleton District Voluntary Action in Sandbach. We provide free IT support to voluntary and community sector organisations across Cheshire and Warrington.
In most cases, “frontline” support is given by our telephone helpdesk. This is open to anyone in a charity or volunteer-based organisation, and you can reach us on 0845 337 0577 (9AM – 6.30PM Mon-Thurs, and 9AM – 5PM Fri). Unlike most IT support helplines, this one is a local rate rather than a premium service!
The majority of charities and similar organisations have no ICT support in place, usually because they assume it will be too expensive. If they were to seek a standard business IT support contract, this would probably be the case. MACAW, on the other hand, is free and provides a tailored service to these organisations.
Our on-site support starts with a full audit of your computer system. This means documenting all the hardware that you have, ensuring that it is working properly, and helping to solve problems. We recommend necessary upgrades, and we can act as a buyer on behalf of your organisation, if necessary. We advise on how you can use your IT system to its full potential.
We also help you move forward with your IT, by advising on development and offering training. MACAW runs a variety of training courses throughout the region, from “Beginning IT” right through to the Microsoft Certified Professional programme.
We were formed in 2005 as part of the ChangeUp consortium, and are now funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund. If you need friendly professional IT support and advice, contact us on 0845 337 0577 or at www.macaw.org.uk.
ChangeUp
ChangeUp is a national programme of capacity building for the infrastructure of the voluntary and community sector, developed in partnership with the sector. The aim of ChangeUp investment is to catalyse the modernisation of infrastructure provision in order to improve its sustainability, quality and reach. Led by sector expertise, the Capacitybuilders agency manages ChangeUp.
In Cheshire and Warrington ChangeUp is managed by a consortium of voluntary and community sector organisations. The lead agency and accountable body is Cheshire Community Council. Further information from www.cheshirecc.org.uk
Vision Support are a regionally based charity providing resources and practical support for people with a visual impairment in Cheshire, Halton and North Wales. IT training, support and advice is available from our team based across Cheshire and North Wales.
For further information please contact Steve Andrews on 01244 381515.
