Age UK Leed’s Digital Angels has been working in South Leeds since September 2016.
Digital Angels is all about getting older people who are socially isolated and living in South Leeds online, through both one to one interventions with volunteers and group activities delivered in community venues.
This service is offered to people over 50 living in south Leeds who identify as lonely and isolated We connect older people living in south Leeds with trained and friendly volunteers who teach them digital skills, to help reduce social isolation. The volunteer will visit them in their own home to help them get online. We can lend equipment or help with technology that people already have. The project encourages digital friendships, contacts gently opening doors to new worlds. We are fully funded by Time to Shine and there is no cost to taking part in the project.
One of our learners Vera says that learning how to use a tablet has helped her to relax and feel closer to her children despite the distance between where they live. She doesn’t feel scared about new things anymore and is excited to continue learning.
We also run group sessions in sheltered accommodation and community venues to help build relationships and connect older people to their local communities. Our recent “Techy Tea Party” held at BITMO GATE in Belle Isle was a huge success and helped our learners to meet each other and show off what they have learned.
If you would like to refer anyone to the service or if you would like more information please contact Morag or Rachel on (0113) 389 3017 or send an email to digital.angels@ageukleeds.org.uk.
