An IT business has become the first official commercial partner for the new Community Interest Company (CIC) taking forward the SafeWise concept into a post-Covid world.

Portland-based business IT Support 365 backed the former SafeWise centres in Weymouth and Bournemouth.

The SafeWise charity was liquidated in January due to lost income from school visits and hire since the pandemic hit in March 2020.

Formerly known as Streetwise, it provided life-like scenarios for children to learn how to keep themselves safe.

SafeWise was supported by police, fire and health services as well as local councils and corporate sponsors.

Tens of thousands of children passed through its doors over more than two decades.

360 Skills For Life is a new CIC established by former SafeWise CEO Rob Hattersley.

It is taking forward the SafeWise safety education concept, replacing expensive physical centres with a blended approach of online virtual reality, in-school and outdoor provision.

Rob, pictured left, said: “Our new blended approach means we can meet schools where they are, whether that’s in school or with home learning resources.

“That makes our delivery pandemic-resilient and reduces costs of travel for schools.

“We’re already making excellent progress and plan to have a new schools programme piloted across Dorset from September.

“We’re delighted that IT365 have renewed their support for us as we move from SafeWise to 360 Skills For Life.

“Getting our systems ready for growth is crucial.

“James and the team at IT365 are responsive and always willing to go the extra mile for us.”

IT Support 365 has recently grown through acquisitions in north-west England.

It already runs a Swindon operation in addition to Portland.

James Bull. Picture: Jason Holt Photography.

James Bull, Group Director, said: “We were incredibly sad to see the closure of the SafeWise charity and the Bournemouth and Weymouth centres.

“But 360’s new model of online, in-school and outdoors seems better suited to the new world we find ourselves in.

“The new digital approach highlights the importance of secure and efficient IT systems.

“We are delighted to be able to support such an innovative and exciting re-thinking of the SafeWise concept.”

Businesses interested in partnering with 360 Skills For Life should visit 360skillsforlife.org to see a short proof of concept video and to find out more.

Information for schools will be released nearer to September.