Helping others get online: David's story

When David saw an opportunity to help fellow Anchor residents become more confident using technology, he knew he wanted to get involved.

As a resident at Runnymede Court, David became a Digital Neighbour after reading about the role in one of our resident newsletters. Since then, he has been using his digital skills to support other residents with everyday tasks, helping them build confidence and stay connected.

Digital Neighbours are residents and colleagues who volunteer their time to help others become more confident using technology. As part of our Be Digital service, they provide friendly, practical support to help people get online and make the most of digital devices.
When I read about the opportunity to become a Digital Neighbour in one of Anchor's newsletters, I thought it was a wonderful idea. I wanted to use my own digital skills to help other residents at Runnymede Court feel more confident using technology.

The part I enjoy most is showing people that digital technology doesn't have to be complicated. Whether it's sending an email, attaching a photograph or learning how to use a spreadsheet, it's rewarding to see someone's confidence grow.

Receiving a laptop through Anchor's Device Bank has made a huge difference. It means I can demonstrate things much more easily and support more residents in my community.
Many of the questions people ask are about everyday things. I've helped residents attach photos to emails from their phones and tablets, and I've shown people how to keep track of their monthly spending using a spreadsheet.

One of the biggest barriers is confidence. Computers can feel overwhelming at first, but I often tell people that a computer screen is really just like a television screen except it's one you can control yourself.

One resident I supported was Martin. He wanted to type a new CV for his daughter with his wife. He'd used a computer before but needed a reminder of a few keyboard shortcuts. We worked through it together and completed the CV. It was lovely knowing I'd helped them with something that was important to their family.

Volunteering makes me feel useful and gives me a little more self-confidence, which I can often lack at times.

If someone is thinking about becoming a Digital Neighbour, I'd say you need patience and a good sense of humour. Everyone learns at their own pace, and that's absolutely fine.

I think it's really important that older people have the opportunity to use technology. It helps people stay in touch with family, access online services and feel more connected to the world around them.

David's story is one example of how Be Digital is helping residents build confidence, develop new skills and support one another. Through initiatives such as Digital Neighbours and the Device Bank, more residents are getting online and discovering the opportunities technology can bring.

To find out more about our Be Digital service and how you can get involved, please visit here.