Become a Digital Buddy Today!

As a Digital Buddy, you will empower Hackney residents to feel confident when using the internet and technology by supporting them with various ICT-based tasks. You will improve their self-confidence, overall well-being, and help residents to become self-sufficient. 

The Role

The role may include the following tasks:

• Explain and demonstrate how to use laptops, tablets, smartphones
• Create email accounts and enable residents to use them
• Support residents to use social media, Zoom, WhatsApp, etc. to connect with friends and loved ones
• Explore online shopping opportunities and how to use various platforms
• Discuss online banking and/or how to pay bills online
• Explore how to find medical information and/or book GP appointments online
• Show residents how to research social activities and local services
• Demonstrate how to use calendars and/or set up helpful reminders
• Explain how to carry out online searches to support residents in finding the information they need

No formal training is required to apply for the role. We will provide you with all the required information upon induction and provide you with volunteer guidelines. However, you will be required to complete the following training before you start volunteering: 

• Ascentis Level 1 Award in Internet Safety for IT Users Overview Specification
• Ascentis Level 1 Award in Understanding Safeguarding for Work, Education, and Life 

About You

Personal qualities most suited to this role:

• A friendly and cheerful manner
• A non-judgmental approach
• Good communication and listening skills
• Good IT and digital skills
• Patience and tact
• Reliability and sense of responsibility
• Good problem-solving skills
• To be able to recognise and work within personal and organisational boundaries
• An understanding of the need for confidentiality
• Willingness to work without direct supervision

Time Commitment

• We are looking for someone who could volunteer with us for 6 months or longer, for a minimum of 2 hours/week
• We will however consider your availability and aim to be as flexible as possible
• The length of sessions will vary at each location. Sessions could take place weekly or could be on a one-off basis

Location

You will be reporting to Hackney Service Centre for training however you will be located in various Digital Buddies locations across the borough including LBH libraries, schools, and community centres. 

Benefits

• This opportunity will allow volunteers to use and develop their skills
• Get involved with your local community
• Join an exciting new project in a dynamic organisation
• Impart your time and skills for the benefit of an older person
• The satisfaction of knowing that you play a pivotal role in aiding an older person in bridging the digital gap.

References & DBS

This role will be subject to a DBS check.

You will be required to supply two references, one being your current or most recent employer.