Digital Champions scheme introduction David Neale

Background: the digital divide in the UK 21% of Britain’s population lack the basic digital skills to realise the benefits of the internet 10% of the adult population may never be able to gain basic digital capabilities 88% feel more confident after they get help to use the internet

The digital divide in the UK The main excluded groups Keys to digital inclusion Older people: nearly half of non-users without internet access are aged over 65 Economically inactive: two thirds of non-users without home access are unemployed Low-qualified: 62% of those with no educational qualifications are non-users With disability: 49% of people with disabilities are not online Access - the ability to actually go online and connect to the internet Skills - to be able to use the internet Motivation - knowing the reasons why using the internet is a good thing Trust - a fear of crime, or not knowing where to start to go online

What we're doing to help Providing regular drop-in sessions at Reading's central library, with volunteers helping visitors with IT – basic computer and mobile device use, web browsing, email etc. Working with partner organisations who can provide additional training as appropriate – Age UK, New Directions Initial session times: Tuesdays 2-4pm | Thursdays 2-4pm | Saturdays 10am-12pm We eventually plan to start new sessions at local centres – libraries, community centres etc. – probably May-July 2015

Our partners – Elevate @ the library More information at http://reading.elevateme.org.uk

Safeguarding We are likely to be working at times with visitors who would be classed as vulnerable adults, such as elderly and infirm people or those with learning-related disabilities. Volunteers will not need to be DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checked provided that we don't offer advice that affects the visitor's wellbeing (e.g. financial advice or advice on benefits). We can give general advice on how to fill in online forms, for example. If in doubt please ask a member of the RVA team.

Any questions?

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