Bridging The Digital Divide

Age UK Isle of Wight and students from the Isle of Wight College are working together to support older people to get online by offering digital support workshops.

During lockdown getting online became increasingly important and vital services are now ‘digital first’, often excluding people from accessing the necessities of everyday life. This has resulted in a significant digital divide with many older people left playing catchup.

Older people are buddied up with college students to develop their skills and confidence in using laptops, tablets and smartphones. Students have shown great patience and understanding, and older people have benefitted from their expertise in learning how to:

Set up new devices, send and receive email, reset passwords, download files, Apps and how to use them, the difference between wi-fi and data, online security and scams awareness, storing photos, social media, searching google and much more!

The feedback from older people who come to the sessions included:

“Given me more confidence to try more on my laptop and phone. Just attending classes has boosted my morale”

“I feel less worried and vulnerable. If I run into trouble, I know where to start looking for help. I have learned very small things...that have been incredibly helpful eg the symbol for delete, how to increase the volume.”

The college students “...are absolutely brilliant, listened carefully and answered all my questions. Friendly and enthusiastic. Well informed. Good fun.”

Paul McKillop Curriculum Manager for Digital and Computing says:

The sessions have positive effects for our students, and the clients. The laughter in the room, and the relationships formed are really moving to see. This is making a real difference in our community.

Upcoming dates for support at the College - 20th March, 27th March, 17th April, 24th April, 15th May

Age UK Isle of Wight also offer one-to-one home visits, drop-ins and a programme of workshops at community venues across the Island for anyone 50 or over. For more information of Age UK’s digital service or to BOOK your place on any of these support sessions call Age UK Isle of Wight on 01983 301693 or email digital@ageukiw.org.uk