County Council urges residents to harness power of social media

Worcestershire County Council is encouraging people to harness the power of social media by taking advantage of its Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Residents are being reminded they can link up with the County Council on Facebook and become a follower on Twitter this Social Media Week (February 13-17).

Social media channels are a great way to stay up-to-speed with all the council's latest news and events.

People connected with the Council on Facebook and Twitter will be able to hear about news such as weather updates, consultation details and up-and-coming events as it breaks. They can also use the networks to stay abreast of local councillors – currently around twenty have signed up to Twitter, including Council Leader Adrian Hardman.

People can also use social media to help turn the council's ambitions for Faster Broadband into a reality by 'liking' the council's Facebook page www.facebook.com/broadbandworcs. Alternatively, support can be shown by visiting: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/broadbandworcs; emailing: broadband@worcestershire.gov.uk.

Cllr Simon Geraghty, Worcestershire County Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Infrastructure, said: "We really want as many residents as possible to use social media to help strengthen their links with the county council. It's a great way to stay up to speed and getting involved couldn't be easier – you are just a few clicks away from all our latest updates."

Cllr Thain, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Transformation and Change, added: "As we work to make Faster Broadband for Worcestershire a reality, there will be many opportunities for people in Worcestershire to get involved. We know that faster Broadband is vital for businesses and residents and simply by 'liking' us on Facebook – you can show your support."

Worcestershire County Council has made 'Open for Business' one of its key priorities and access to Faster Broadband is vital in ensuring companies are able to remain competitive and grow their businesses.  This will also add to Worcestershire's attractiveness as a new location for companies and organisations expanding and seeking to relocate. 

Worcestershire County Council is working with local organisations and individuals to bring ‘Faster Broadband for all by 2015’. The Local Broadband Plan aims to bring download speeds of at least 2Mbps for all and for 90% of businesses and residents in the County to have access to Superfast Broadband.