Charities unite to boost digital skills in Devon

Two Devon charities have joined forces to tackle digital exclusion in the county’s rural and coastal communities by helping people gain confidence with everyday online tasks.

Devon Communities Together and Wellmoor have launched Digital Skills Devon, a new programme funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The initiative will provide free, personalised support to individuals who lack digital skills, offering up to five hours of in-person assistance.

Help is tailored to each participant’s needs and can cover a wide range of activities, from doing online food shopping and checking energy use to accessing healthcare through the NHS app or joining an online chat to connect with family and friends.

Ben Feasey, Project Manager at Devon Communities Together, said: “With so much of our lives happening online it’s really important that people have a chance to learn the necessary skills and grow their confidence in the digital world. We hope that Digital Skills Devon will help people to access important online facilities and services that will make a positive difference in their lives.”

Katie Taylor, Project Manager at Wellmoor, added: “With so many services moving online, including the NHS, it’s crucial that people get support in accessing what they need. We are really looking forward to helping those in rural areas of Devon increase their confidence with digital skills.”

The programme is aimed at those most in need, including older adults, unpaid carers, people with long-term physical or mental health conditions, disabled and neurodivergent individuals, those living in isolated rural and coastal areas, and the long-term unemployed.

Support is available in several forms: one-to-one sessions for individuals, advice for people who want to help a friend or family member, and tailored guidance for organisations seeking to improve digital access.

For more information or to access support, contact Devon Communities Together on 01392 248919 or email info@devoncommunities.org.uk