A MAJOR educational charity has officially opened its Launceston headquarters in the old driving test centre on Western Road.

Cornwall Council leader and Cornwall Councillor for Launceston North and North Petherwin, Adam Paynter, cut the ribbon at a recent celebration to welcome V Learning Net to the town.

Cllr Paynter said: “V Learning Net have been doing a fantastic job helping local people to overcome disadvantages and disabilities, gain new skills and get into employment. To now have them based in Launceston itself is a huge boost.

“I was honoured to be asked to cut the ribbon and I hope as many people as possible will take advantage of this brilliant community resource. Whether you want to learn how to use emails and the Internet or you’re looking to build your confidence levels, then this is the place to go.”

V Learning Net recently welcomed the public through its doors for a free IT repair café and virtual reality demo staged by Launceston Computers. Visitors were able to get help with tablet and computer problems while finding out about the free educational opportunities now available on their doorstep and the chance to improve their knowledge of IT, maths and English and other related areas.

Stephen Howard, the charity’s CEO, said: “There are very few people claiming job seekers’ allowance in Launceston, but lots are relying on employment and support allowance. We provide a welcome, non-judgmental environment where people facing all sorts of challenges can get the help and support they need to overcome barriers and build themselves up, even if they’ve been out of work for many years and don’t have any qualifications.”

Formed in 2001, V Learning Net is the ‘Hub’ organisation for a wide variety of third sector and training organisations including Second Chance Learning.