Improve Your Digital Skills!

Age UK Lindsey has launched a new Digital Champion Programme to help older people living in East Lindsey, West Lindsey and North Lincolnshire who want to get online and learn how to use digital devices.

Vital services such as banking, shopping and health services have become increasingly ‘digital first’ since the COVID-19 pandemic. But there are more than 3 million people aged 65 and over in the UK who do not use the internet, meaning there is a huge risk of older people being left behind.

The scheme, which is part of a wider Age UK Digital Champion Programme being run through local Age UKs across England and Wales, will provide digital training sessions to help those older people who want to learn how to get online. The sessions will be delivered by volunteer Digital Champions who will be trained to provide digital support to others. Those who take part in the programme will also be given access to loaned technology, allowing them to build their knowledge and practice their skills.

James Wolfe, Digital Engagement Officer at Age UK Lindsey said:

“We’re very excited to have launched the Age UK Digital Champion Programme here at Age UK Lindsey. A lack of digital skills, access to technology and rural living mean that many older people in our area are missing out on essential services and the opportunity to connect with loved ones. The programme will help ensure that those who want to get online are given the skills and training in order to do so.

“We’d encourage any older person in East Lindsey, West Lindsey or North Lincolnshire who would like to get online to contact us to find out what digital support is available to them or come along to our digital training drop-in sessions held every Wednesday at The Trinity Centre in Louth, 10am to 12pm.

“Whether you are interested in exploring what the internet has to offer, want to try online shopping or would like to video-call your loved ones, we can help! Our team is on hand to support you every step of the way. We can even provide you with everything you need to get started, through our tablet loan scheme - it’s completely free and it gives you the chance to discover the internet, at home, for 6-8 weeks.

“We’re also looking for Digital Champion volunteers to deliver skills sessions to older people in their area, if you think you can help then please do get in touch.”

To find out more about Age UK Lindsey’s Digital Champion Programme, and to sign up as a volunteer Digital Champion, please contact us on 01507 524242.