Earlier this year Dow generously provided tablets with training on usage and online safety to 12 Oasis clients over the course of three engagement sessions.

This was part of a wider Dow initiative to improve digital access for groups in society who struggle to access and utilise online technology. Sanctuary seekers face significant digital barriers including a lack of access or digital literacy. This initiative takes a step towards addressing these challenges.

One of our clients shared that, “It helps me, as I can get the educational books on the tablet, so it helps me with my studies. My phone is old, and not in good condition to work properly."

Dow is a US material sciences company, with a major silicones manufacturing site in Barry, south Wales. The site engages in numerous community programmes, including through volunteer Employee Resource Groups (ERG). These groups bring together people to share experiences, find mentors, seek professional development, and gain access to senior leadership. One of these ERGs is the Global African Affinity Network (GAAN). This group of Dow colleagues in Barry (and across the UK) work to enrich the contributions of our workforce, build a strong talent pipeline and promote advocacy for employees of African heritage.

To tie in with the company’s wider plans for improving digital access for all, the GAAN group locally partnered with Oasis. Dow colleagues volunteered to help support the roll out of the digital access initiative by participating in three sessions earlier this year with Oasis clients.

Feedback from Dow GAAN volunteers who took part in the partnership highlighted the value of sharing knowledge and building new connections:

Issayas Tsegay: “It was truly a joyful experience. The recipients highly valued the training and materials we provided. Despite my busy schedule, it was worth taking the time to support those in need, and I would gladly do it again in a heartbeat.

Adam Balson: “As the laboratory IT coordinator for Barry site, I found it immensely gratifying to work with and train the recipients on the setup and usage of the tablets. The recipients showed great responsiveness, eagerness to learn, and appreciation of the opportunity. Troubleshooting issues and collaboratively finding resolutions was incredibly rewarding for me and ensured they maximized the benefits of the sessions”.

Lydia Davies: “As an Analytical Technologist I really enjoyed getting out of the lab and going to Oasis in Cardiff. It was satisfying to help connect up the tablets and get everyone online. The sessions benefitted everyone and will ensure their success in the future. Thank you for this amazing opportunity.”

Partnering with organisations such as Dow provides expertise beyond our scope and allows us to open new doors for sanctuary seekers at Oasis.