Hey everyone,
I’m reaching out to the nerds, geeks—whatever you like to call yourselves—of Oldham. I’m one of you, always have been, always will be.
About a year ago, I set up Inclusive Bytes CIC with two goals in mind:
1️⃣ To give the next generation of geeks a better start than I had.
2️⃣ To help as many people as possible along the way.
In our first year, I think it’s fair to say we’ve made a real impact:
✅ 15 young people gained hands-on internships, working for real social enterprises.
✅ £12,000+ saved for non-profits by improving their tech infrastructure.
✅ Dozens of affordable websites built for organisations that need them most.
✅ Hundreds of people trained to use technology more effectively.
What’s Next? HOOT 🦉 (Hands-On Opportunities in Tech)
We’re on a mission to make Oldham the most digitally inclusive town in the UK. But we don’t believe digital inclusion should be left to “the geeks” alone. Every organisation should be working towards it, and our job as tech enthusiasts is to support them.
In an ideal world, Inclusive Bytes wouldn’t need to exist—because digital inclusion would be the norm. But we’re not there yet.
This is Where You Come In
Growing up, I was that geeky kid—the one who didn’t play football, got bullied for being different, but somehow held onto my nerdiness. Not everyone is so lucky. Many young people feel pressured to suppress their geeky side, only to find out later that tech skills are essential for getting a good job.
We need to change that. Let’s build a culture where digital skills, critical thinking, and creativity thrive. Not through corporate investment or flashy initiatives, but through real grassroots action.
What Can We Do?
🔹 Get code clubs in every school
🔹 Bring back tabletop gaming in libraries
🔹 Start role-playing groups in community centres
🔹 Make a proper Comic-Con happen in Oldham again
🔹 People delivering ignite talks about their passions
How Can You Help?
If any of this resonates with you—whether you’re into coding, gaming, storytelling, or just want to see a more inclusive, geek-friendly culture in Oldham—let’s make it happen together.
Drop a comment, send me a message, or share your ideas. Let’s build something amazing.
Who’s in?