Culture Perth & Kinross has recruited a group of “Digital Champions” to encourage over-50s to boost their IT and technology skills.
The Champions – all volunteers – are working across four libraries in the region providing simple, free IT advice to a pocket of the population which is notoriously lacking in Internet and IT skills.
The Digital Champions are offering digital learning support to both members and non-members of the libraries, including sending emails, making use of the Internet, downloading apps, using e-books and using smart devices. The libraries included in the programme are: AK Bell in Perth; Auchterarder Library; Loch Leven Campus Library and Strathearn Campus Library in Crieff.
The move by Culture Perth and Kinross, which runs the region’s libraries, comes after it identified a need for a digital learning service for library users. It coincides with the publication last week of a report by the Centre for Ageing Better which found that 4.8 million people over the age of 55 are not online and make up 94% of all non-users of the Internet.
Culture Perth & Kinross is encouraging over-50s to embrace this completely free opportunity to enhance their technology skills in a relaxed, friendly environment where the Digital Champions will take the time to support people with whatever they need, no matter how small.
Anne Marie McCloskey is a Digital Champion at Perth’s AK Bell Library. Appointments are booked in advance and Anne Marie is delighted that they have been filling up weeks in advance. She said:
“I have helped many people get started usually with texting, emailing, adding photos, storing contacts or creating folders on phones and iPads. Most people who come in are from mid 60s to late 80s. There is a huge demand for basic support and a person they can get help from without ‘feeling stupid’.”
Proving that age doesn’t stop people learning new technology, Anne Marie showed an 85-year-old lady how to watch episodes of her favourite TV programme on BBC iPlayer. Anne Marie added:
“I love that people return to see me and are keen to embrace today’s technology as they don’t want to be left behind. I have developed some lovely relationships and it’s wonderful when they return to tell me that they have used their devices to contact friends or relatives, using what they have learned.”
Culture Perth and Kinross is also looking to recruit Digital Champions. They should be people-focussed with good IT skills and some spare time. To apply email [email protected] or call Elaine Wallace, Senior Officer Libraries on 01738 444949.
To find out where your nearest Digital Champion is and to book a free appointment, call AK Bell Library on 01738 444949.