Five libraries in Dorset - including Weymouth and Bridport - are offering the chance to borrow an iPad for up to six weeks free of charge.

Dorset Council is working with the Citizen’s Advice charity and the Department for Work and Pensions on the pilot scheme.

The iPads will aim to help people search and apply for jobs online and the devices can also be used to access online training to gain skills and knowledge. 

The devices are easy to use with an instructional video and support from library staff., while there is no need for broadband as the tablets have free data and are fully loaded with information about looking for work and learning new skills.

The iPads will be available to borrow from libraries in Weymouth, Bridport, Blandford, Swanage and Ferndown.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for culture, communities and customer services, said: "This is a great opportunity for people who are struggling to find employment through traditional ways to try a different approach for free.

“Our digital champions are very good at helping the inexperienced to get online.”

Details of the scheme can be found at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/borrow-an-ipad

If the pilot is successful, Dorset Council says it will investigate extending the number of libraries able to offer the service.