Technology help is out there with these new digital champions

The new helpers are now are lending their time to Superfast Dorset, where they will enable Dorset Council to give technical support with computers, tablets, smartphones and getting online.

One of the volunteers is David Jones, who has more than 30 years of experience working in IT. He will be helping people at Charmouth Library.

David said: "I ran similar sessions in Wiltshire for some years before moving to Dorset. People really do get a lot out of it and I see it as a way of giving something back to help others now that I’m retired."

Another one of the new volunteers will be John Howes, who will offer his assistance at Sherborne Library.

John said: "Digital skills are useful in many aspects of modern-day life. I’m a bit of a computer buff and see this as an opportunity to help people who want to learn something new.

"Being online has the potential to reduce isolation and could be life-enhancing for so many people."

The new volunteers will be joining a team of 70 volunteers from all over the county. They offer free computer help sessions to members of the public in libraries and other venues throughout Dorset.

They can help show people how to use their computer, navigate the internet and create and run an email account.

Other examples of assistance they can offer might include how to keep in touch with friends and family via social media, how to access information on various topics and how to carry out simple online tasks.

The volunteers have so far managed to help more than 1,339 people.

The organisation says that there are about 150,000 adults in Dorset who need help with their digital skills, and that 70,000 are not online at all.

Anyone who wants or needs help with technology can call 01305 221048, and a suitable Digital Champion can lend their help.

More information about Superfast Dorset can be found at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

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