Digital Champion Volunteer

Proposed Start Date: ASAP
Minimum number of hours per week: 3
Minimum length of commitment we hope for: 6 months or longer
Report to: Digital Inclusion Project Coordinator or Digital Inclusion Outreach Worker

Role Overview:

• To provide digital skill training, information and assistance to older residents in Hammersmith & Fulham within our AgeUK H&F Activity centre, private homes, outreach events and community locations.
• To empower older people to use technology by developing their digital knowledge and confidence to improve their overall well-being, maintaining their independence and aiming to reduce isolation.
• To help others understand the benefits of using the internet, demonstrate how to do simple things online and how to get the most out of personal technological devices.
• To provide one-to-one training and hands-on support to highlight the positive impact of using digital technology in their daily lives.

Key Task Descriptions:

• Provide digital skill training to clients in the form of one-to-one booked and or drop-in tutorials in the Cybercafé.  
• Provide IT sessions and demonstrations on IT-related areas such as 'setting up email accounts' / 'how to use a tablet' / shopping and banking online / Internet searches.
• To promote the AgeUK H&F's Staying Connected Service within the local area and disseminate IT information to older persons in the borough.
• Explain and demonstrate how to use the internet and technological devices, i.e. tablets, smartphones and laptops
• Demonstrate how to use emails and maintain an account.
• To train clients on how to use technology to communicate with friends and family.
• Explore online shopping and demonstrate how to use various services. 
• Discuss online banking and paying bills online.
• Explore how to find medical information and/or book GP appointments online
• Show how to research social activities and local services.
• Demonstrate how to use calendars and/or set up helpful reminders
• Explain how to research organisations (like trusted traders, builders, etc.) and find out what other people are saying about them
• Demonstrate how to use accessibility features on personal devices.
• Train clients on Internet safety and data protection best practices.
• Record session topics for metric reporting purposes.
• Adhere to safeguarding practices and AgeUK H&F policies.

Skills/Attributes Required:

• Friendly, cheerful and enthusiastic
• Patient and calm
• Reliable and trustworthy
• Flexible approach
• Committed to Equal Opportunities
• To be able to recognise and work within personal and organisational boundaries
• An understanding of the need for confidentiality
• A non-judgmental approach
• Good communication and listening skills
• Good IT and digital skills
• Reliability and sense of responsibility
• Good problem-solving skills
• Willingness to work without direct supervision

Experience Required:

• An interest & experience in general IT with a good understanding of Microsoft Office
• Ability to use and explain the use of the internet, wi-fi, tablets, smartphones and laptops
• General knowledge of the benefits of using technology to assist with daily tasks and activities

Training & Development:

• No formal training is required
• General Induction
• Learn My Way Course

Expenses:

• We reimburse your volunteering travel expenses (on proof of receipt)
• Lunch is provided if you volunteer for over 4 hours on any given date

Location:

You will be supporting sessions primarily at the Age UK H&F Activity Centre, 105 Greyhound Road, Fulham W6 8NJ. However, in the near future, there will be a need to conduct one-to-one support visits at clients' homes, Age UK H&F Charity Shop (W12 centre), outreach locations and events.

Benefits:

• Free training
• Develop your skills
• Free DBS certification and DBS Update Service registration
• Be part of a team who are making a positive change in the local community
• Empower older people with digital skills