Technology and the internet has been a huge help to us throughout this year’s lockdown and the pandemic so far. It has enabled people to work successfully from home, school children to do their homework and classes remotely, exercise classes and social groups to take place and friends and family to keep connected across the globe, however, this has not been the case for 4.1 million people who are not online in the UK. As a result of this, many people are being left isolated experiencing feelings of loneliness.
How Can We Help People Get Online?
This year’s Get Online Week that runs from 19th-25th October is themed on the idea of helping people to get online, encouraging us all to ensure no-one is left digitally excluded.
In Surrey there are many organisations working hard to help people who may be struggling with technology or do not have access to the equipment. An example of some of these organisations include:
1. Farnham Lions: The Lions in Farnham are refurbishing old laptops and PCs and donating these to children and people in need
2. Age UK Surrey: The Digital Buddies projects is recruiting volunteers to support older people with any technology queries
3. Surrey Coalition of Disabled People: The Coalition has projects to help and educate people about how to use certain types of technology. Projects include: Tech To Community Connect, Tech How To Guides, Technology Enabled Smarter Homes.
Contact Us At Voluntary Action South West Surrey
There are many more charities and services in the borough supporting people with this. For more information about the organisations available to help, ring us on 01483 565456 and we will connect you.