Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the current national lockdown is changing the way we live. Digital technology has become an essential part of everyday life, allowing us to stay connected with loved ones, shop for food, supplies and medicine, and access online information so we can sustain good mental and physical wellbeing.
However, the more vulnerable and less digitally aware are being left behind. We want to help you support less digitally confident friends, family and neighbours to get online and socialise with others.
Providing digital support over the phone
With strict new measures requiring people to stay at home, we encourage you to offer digital support over the phone. Remember to:
- Take things at a steady pace - Check out step by step online guides such as Citizen Online (external link) or Digital Unite (external link)
- Practice what has been learned - E.g. after going through the basics of making a video why not try making and receiving calls
- Be patient - The biggest barrier to learning digital skills is confidence. Reassure them that making mistakes is ok and it’s how we all learn.
Online digital learning
Online learning platforms are a great way to help people of all ages learn new digital skills and hobbies, and become more digitally savvy.
- Visit our digital resources and learning page to find a range of free online materials, including great online learning platforms like Learn My Way and iDEA
- Coding for all - Coding and computer programming aren’t just for computer experts, anyone can learn to code at any time in their life.
How to help someone who is struggling to book a delivery slot for online shopping
If you know someone vulnerable who is struggling to book a delivery slot for their online shop, guidance and services that can help include:
Steer clear of misleading or ‘fake’ news
Encourage people to steer clear of coronavirus myths circulating online, particularly through social media. Up-to-date and accurate information can be found on the:
If you don’t have mobile data, access to NHS services online will be free (external link) while the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is ongoing.
Worried about your child’s online safety?
Get expert advice and guidance on your child’s online safety from the following:
- NSPCC: Online safety (external link) - From setting up parental controls to advice on sexting, online games and video apps, helping you understand the risks so you can keep your child safe
- Thinkuknow (external link) - an education programme split into different age ranges offering advice to protect your children both online and offline.
How to look after your mental wellbeing