Digital Support Volunteer (Old Oscott)

Could you spare a little time each week to help older people use smartphones, tablets, laptops, the NHS App, GP online services, email, video calls and more?

Age UK Birmingham is looking for friendly, patient volunteers to support local people with digital skills, online confidence and staying safe from scams.

We have two locations:

�� Oscott Community Centre — Tuesdays, 12:00–13:30
�� Oldbury Library — Wednesdays, 11:00–13:00

For more detailed information, please see below:

About the Service

The Digital Support service offers free, personalised assistance through one-to-one, group, or virtual sessions, tailored to each individual’s needs and pace. It supports people in getting started with smartphones, tablets, and laptops, setting up and using online services such as shopping platforms and health apps, and staying connected with family and friends through messaging, video calls, and social media. The service also helps individuals build confidence online, protect personal information, and recognise and avoid scams, phishing messages, and fake websites.

Support is available for a wide range of devices, including laptops, tablets (such as iPads), smartphones (Android or iPhone), and other everyday digital technology. Whether someone is completely new to digital or looking to develop their skills, the service helps them get online, set up and manage email accounts, use apps and online services, and explore new digital tools in a simple, friendly, and supportive way.

About the Role

As an Age UK Digital support volunteer, you'll receive training to aid older individuals in improving their digital skills and confidence, with particular focus on digital health. This can include access to the NHS app or local GP surgery online portals. Your role includes understanding their online barriers and helping to overcome them.

Specific tasks may include:

·       Work with older people in group sessions to develop their digital skills and confidence online.

·       Get to know the older people you support to understand the individual barriers they face.

·       Some set-up of the room may be required as well as handing out equipment

Personal qualities and skills most suited to this role

·       Strong listener and clear, friendly communicator who adapts to different learners

·       Comfortable using smartphones, tablets, and laptops

·       Confident with common operating systems (Android, iOS, Windows), though not all are required

·       Skilled in everyday online tasks like messaging, email, browsing, video calls and Apps, e.g the NHS App,

·       Careful and detail-oriented when handling older people’s information, with awareness of data privacy.

What the role can offer you

•         As a digital volunteer, you will be part of creating a supportive project to people who will benefit

•         The role is an opportunity to connect with and support your local community

•         You will meet with new people who care about the same things

•         Build skills to enhance your CV

•         You will make a real difference to people’s lives

Additional Information

Full training is provided which will consist of a variety of both online and in-person training. You will receive CORE modules in the form of a training booklet during registration, plus additional training via your line manager once you have started to perform your role safely and effectively.