The first thing that Greater Manchester’s newly elected Mayor, Andy Burnham did the morning after he was elected was spent time with the homeless in Manchester City centre. Despite the city’s growth, it has in common with other growing economies, people who don’t have the right skills and financial capability to take part fully in society or to benefit from the opportunities a digital society brings.

Each year this is measured by a UK wide Digital Index, last published on 30 March. While it shows there have been some encouraging improvements over the past year – with over 1m people with greater digital skills and more than 300,000 improving their financial capability, the North West region’s findings in the show there is no room for complacency.

So who are the partners who can increase the pace at which those with low financial and digital capability find the help they need? Are they Councils, Charities, Social Landlords, Banks – yes certainly, but is there now a case for a wider community to support these actions, such as digital businesses?

Join lead discussants including Nick Williams, Managing Director, Consumer Digital at Lloyds Banking Group and Stuart MacDonald, Associate Director at the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) to discuss:

• What does the Index say about the North West;
• What are the barriers people face;
• What can new players such as business bring to the table; and
• What is the case for getting involved?

The salon will be followed by networking drinks.

Places are limited so please register your interest now, to avoid disappointment.