Online@OurAge Digital Roadshow
Published on 26 October 2026 02:51 PM
The Big Day
On 21st October, Age UK Wandsworth hosted its first Digital Roadshow at St Peter’s Church, Battersea. Older Wandsworth residents, carers, staff, volunteers and representatives from NatWest bank, the NHS and British Telecom came together to explore how technology can support everyday life and how to stay safe from online scams.
Getting online is not always straightforward: technology changes quickly, services can feel complicated and opportunities to build digital skills may be limited. The roadshow welcomed people aged 50+ and carers to try devices, ask questions, learn about online safety and find further support.
Digital skills
Through presentations, small-group activities and one-to-one support, attendees explored how digital skills can help them stay independent and connected. They could try devices, ask questions and get help with their own technology in a supportive environment.
Colleagues from Age UK Wandsworth’s Information & Advice and Age Well Together services joined local providers to offer advice on benefits checks, handyperson services, healthcare and getting online at home.
Staying safe online
Online safety and scam awareness were central to the day.
As essential services move online, confidence also means knowing how to respond to fraudulent messages, unexpected calls and phishing emails designed to create fear or urgency.
Presentations encouraged people to pause, check unexpected requests independently and seek advice. No one should feel pressured to share personal information, allow remote access to a device or make a payment. Representatives from NatWest bank’s Clapham Junction branch also explained how to spot callers impersonating a bank.
The message was simple: pause, ask questions and check before acting. There is no shame in seeking help or reporting a suspicious approach, even if no money has been lost.
Scams Bingo brought the advice to life, using a fun, interactive format to reinforce common warning signs.
Conversation and Community
The roadshow was also about community. Over tea, coffee and a light lunch, attendees met others, shared experiences and asked questions without feeling rushed.
We spoke with attendees to hear how they experienced the day.
What they told us
Sara, who came for help with her phone, described the event as “totally dedicated to IT”. She valued the support with her questions and was surprised by the range of other Age UK Wandsworth services available, including the handyperson service.
Fiona and James heard about the roadshow through their physiotherapist and then spoke with Helen, our Digital Coordinator, who encouraged them to attend. They have found everyday tasks harder as more services move online but valued the chance to build confidence with phones and computers, and James even won his first game of bingo!
Their experience highlighted a common barrier: learning a digital process can be difficult when guidance itself assumes online confidence. Tasks such as booking appointments or emailing applications can therefore feel inaccessible.
They found the roadshow’s friendly, face-to-face support a practical way to ask questions and work through these challenges.
Maureen told us:
“I came especially for the Digital Telephone Switchover presentation, which was excellent.”
Some Feedback from NatWest
Caroline and Levenia from NatWest explained the barriers older people may face with online banking.
They said some older customers prefer cash because learning to use online banking can feel difficult or unsafe.
Their bank encourages customers to practise online banking in a branch with staff support until they feel confident using it independently.
Concluding Thoughts
Organisers and partners emphasised the importance of helping older people become more independent and confident with technology, know where to find support and stay safe online. Attendees especially valued being able to ask questions in person and take part in interactive presentations.
(names of attendees have been changed)