How Doreen found confidence with Let's Get Digital digital drop-in sessions

Doreen is a local Waltham Forest resident and 5 months ago she did not know how to use a computer or laptop. After attending the Let’s Get Digital drop-in sessions, she is now able to use her phone properly, learn to confidently type with her keyboard, and watch her favourite films and TV shows on her devices. 

Doreen said, “It is amazing for me. I don’t want to get left behind with computers and telephones. That’s why I joined the drop-in sessions. I can order things on the computer and video call on my phone.” 

These digital drop-in sessions are part of the wider Let’s Get Digital campaign which has just launched, to ensure all residents can access the online world if they want to.   

Doreen has been getting support from some of our dedicated Digital Champion volunteers, Phil and Chris. 

Chris said: “I became a digital champion volunteer as I wanted to contribute and give back to my local community.

“The first person I helped had never touched a mouse or a computer before. She didn’t know what the internet was and had never heard of Google. Through the sessions we broke down the mystique around getting online. Getting her to the point where she was confident filling out a form on a website was amazing.”

The digital drop-in sessions will have friendly Digital Champions such as Phil and Chris, to guide residents through whatever issue or query they may have related to their phone, laptop, tablet, or the internet in general.  

There are still opportunities available to become a Digital Champion and make a difference to someone’s life like Phil and Chris have done. As a volunteer, you receive training, and you don’t need to be a digital expert. You just need a willingness to help people and a friendly attitude.

As well as the drop-in sessions across libraries in the borough, residents who receive Universal Credit and other benefits could also access cheaper broadband. These social tariffs could save residents up to £200 a year on their internet bills.  

Cabinet Member for Public Service, Cllr Paul Douglas said: “We want to ensure every resident in the borough has the skills, tools, and support to get online. Getting online can mean greater access to jobs and education, staying in touch with our loved ones, booking doctor appointments and accessing all kinds of information and services.” 

Visit your local library and speak to a member of our team to find out about support getting online.