Winter 2020
Let’s get digital
Buying presents online and video calling to keep in touch with loved ones this Christmas has never been more important, due to COVID restrictions.
A
lmost 1 in 5 of us in the UK need a bit of extra help to do that – because we’ve not been able to learn how to send an email or search the web. Southwark Council is working hard to change that for our residents – including through a variety of digital skills courses for beginners while giving residents access to fast, reliable Wi-Fi in community halls and libraries. But sometimes, what we really need is a friendly face in the community to help us along, what can feel like, quite a daunting journey. So we’ve asked a company called We Are Digital to create a network of volunteer Digital Champions – to help fellow residents build the confidence and skills to take advantage of the world online. The network is funded by internet company Hyperoptic – who are helping to improve broadband speeds across Southwark by installing full-fibre broadband networks, particularly in areas with the lowest internet speeds. Find more on our Better Broadband pages: www.southwark.gov.uk/housing/housing-gettinginvolved/better-broadband-for-southwark Or call 03333 444 019 (option 1) to sign up for some 1-2-1 digital skills support from We Are Digital.
Become a volunteer Digital Champion You don’t need to be an IT whizz, you just need a bit of spare time and enthusiasm to support others. Typical tasks for a Digital Champion include: • Teaching someone to use Google • Helping someone set up an email account • Explaining how easy shopping and banking online can be • Setting someone up on Skype • Helping someone research their family history or other hobby online In return you’ll receive free online training to develop your own digital skills and knowledge, certificates and badges to add to your CV and ideas and support from a huge network of Digital Champions. You’ll also get a great feeling of personal satisfaction knowing you’ve made a real difference to others. To find out more, call We Are Digital on 03333 444 019 or visit www.digitalchampionsnetwork.com.
southwark.gov.uk
17
