Pathways project is part of Cambridge Online City. For more information on Cambridge Online City background please see COLCs page. COLC aims to provide inclusion of minority and socially excluded groups.

Cambridge Online City Access Group was established by Sally Keyworth (now Development Officer for Cambridge Online City) from organisations and individuals interested in improving access to the Internet and related technologies for people with disabilities.

An exhibition was held in Cambridge in February 1998 where suppliers demonstrated a wide range of alternative technology to disabled people, organisations and professionals. The "Computers and Internet for Everyone" exhibition was attended by over 200 people and feedback clearly indicated a need for access, training, support and advice on alternative equipment in Cambridgeshire.

Funding from Cambridge City Council enabled the Pathways Project to be developed, and project worker Sarah Hooper was appointed in September 1998 to research equipment and help set up a specialist centre at the Hester Adrian Centre in Cambridge. The Pathways Project opened in February 1999, three open days were attended by over 150 people. A grant from Lloyds TSB Foundation enabled a second Project Worker and an Administrator to be employed in October 1999.

The Pathways Project is an innovative project which aims to offer opportunities for disabled people to explore a wide range of alternative computer technologies and IT based information and communication facilities, allowing training needs to be identified, basic training offered and referral to other training sources as appropriate.

The Pathways Project has provided a consultancy service for Cambridgeshire Libraries and Information Service on a Library Access and Learning Project.

In March 2000 the Pathways Project won an award from Cambridgeshire Lifelong Learning Partnership for making a particular impact on lifelong learning in Cambridgeshire.