Business Details
18 Years
experience
Your Trusted IT Support Partner in Lancashire
Founded in 2008, The IT Dept has established itself as a trusted Managed Service Provider (MSP) serving businesses, schools, and charities across Lancashire and beyond. Our team of experienced professionals brings technical expertise and a client-focused approach to every project, whether delivering regular support visits or urgent call-outs. We prioritise simplicity and clarity in our communication, avoiding technical jargon to ensure clients fully understand our solutions. Our commitment to local partnerships and community engagement reflects our dedication to supporting regional growth.With a proven track record in both education and business IT support since the mid-2000s, we combine deep industry knowledge with practical problem-solving capabilities. Our infrastructure investments, including UK-based data centres and advanced cybersecurity solutions, demonstrate our focus on delivering reliable, future-proof technology services tailored to each client's unique needs.
Services
IT Support
Microsoft 365 Solutions
Backup and Disaster Recovery
Domain Hosting
Cyber Security
Hardware Sales
Remote Support
On-Site Support
Network Infrastructure
Cloud Services
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer 24/7 remote and on-site support with rapid response times
- Our UK-based data centres ensure secure, compliant hosting solutions
- Team includes Microsoft-certified professionals with education sector expertise
- Proven track record supporting schools since 2008
- We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees
What people say
Excellent support
Quick response times
Clear explanations
Reliable service
Highly recommend
Services
IT Support
Our comprehensive IT support covers regular maintenance and emergency call-outs for businesses and educational institutions. With UK-based technicians and rapid response times, we ensure minimal downtime through proactive system monitoring and both remote and on-site assistance. Our team specialises in resolving technical issues while providing clear, jargon-free explanations to staff at all technical levels.
Microsoft 365 Solutions
We implement and manage Microsoft 365 environments tailored to organisational needs. Our services include secure migration, email transition, compliance management, and staff training. As Microsoft Partners, we ensure clients maximise productivity through optimised cloud solutions with 99.9% uptime guarantees and integrated cybersecurity protections across all devices.
Backup and Disaster Recovery
Our secure online backup systems protect critical business data with encrypted storage in UK data centres. We offer both automated cloud backups and comprehensive disaster recovery plans featuring virtual machine snapshots. This ensures business continuity during technical failures while maintaining compliance with data protection regulations through regular system audits and rapid restoration capabilities.
Domain Hosting
We provide fully managed domain hosting services with UK-based servers for enhanced security and performance. Our packages include website hosting, email account management, and domain registration. Clients benefit from 36-hour support response times, full technical maintenance, and seamless integration with existing IT infrastructure for both new websites and transferred domains.
Cyber Security
Our cybersecurity solutions feature Webroot Endpoint Protection with real-time threat detection and encrypted data transmission. We implement multi-layered security including anti-phishing measures, firewall management, and identity protection. Regular system audits identify vulnerabilities while our monitoring services provide early warnings of potential security breaches across both cloud and on-premise environments.
People
Matthew Schofield
Managing Director
With IT experience since the mid-2000s, Matthew founded The IT Dept in 2008 after identifying a need for simplified technical solutions. He leads strategic direction while maintaining hands-on involvement in client projects, particularly in school IT systems.
Simon Leivers
Business Development Manager
Simon manages client relationships and service expansion, ensuring solutions align with evolving business needs. His focus on clear communication helps translate technical requirements into practical business benefits for clients across multiple sectors.
Anthony Alker
Service Desk Manager
Anthony oversees daily technical operations and support coordination. With extensive experience in network infrastructure, he ensures efficient resolution of both routine maintenance issues and complex system challenges for the company's diverse client base.
Owen Poole
Senior Support Engineer
Owen provides expert technical support with a focus on cybersecurity and system optimisation. His practical approach to problem-solving helps businesses maintain secure, efficient IT environments while minimising operational disruptions during technical transitions.
Questions
What IT services do you offer for schools?
We provide comprehensive IT support for schools including network management, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and technical maintenance. Our team understands educational sector requirements and budget constraints.
Do you offer 24/7 technical support?
Yes, we provide 24/7 remote support with rapid on-site response times for critical issues affecting business operations.
How do you handle data security?
We implement enterprise-grade cybersecurity solutions including Webroot Endpoint Protection, encrypted backups, and regular security audits to protect client data.
Can you help with cloud migration?
As Microsoft Partners, we specialise in secure Microsoft 365 migrations, including email transition, compliance management, and staff training.
What areas do you cover?
While based in Lancashire, we serve clients across the North West and surrounding regions with both remote and on-site support options.
