Getting started with digital support
Technology can support everyday life in lots of different ways but knowing where to start is not always easy. If your sight has changed, or if technology feels confusing or overwhelming, you are not alone. It is not uncommon for people to feel unsure what might help, or to worry about getting things wrong at first.
Digital support is about helping you explore what could work for you, at your own pace, with guidance from someone who understands sight loss.
What do we mean by digital support?
Digital support can include help with phones, tablets, computers, apps and built-in accessibility features. It might be something very small, like making text easier to read or learning how to use voice commands. For others, it could be about reading post independently, using travel apps, shopping online, or trying a new device.
Tools such as screen readers and magnifiers can make it easier to read emails or browse the internet. Voice assistants like Alexa or Siri can read the news, tell you the weather, set reminders or help with simple tasks. Smartphone apps can read labels aloud, identify objects, or describe what’s around you.
Many of these features are already built into phones and tablets, but they are often hidden or hard to find without support.
Support shaped around you
Our Digital Skills Advisors offer one-to-one support that starts with what matters to you. There is no expectation that you already understand technology or know what you need. Some people are complete beginners, while others are confident with the basics but want help learning a new skill or trying something new.
Support is usually offered by appointment at hubs or resource centres. At some hubs and social sessions, there may also be Techbuster volunteers or a Digital Skills Advisor available for more informal, drop-in advice.
The focus is always on going at your pace. You might want help with everyday tasks, advice on accessibility features, or support using a new device such as Meta glasses or a smart speaker. The aim is not to overload you with information, but to help you feel more confident and supported.
Learning in different ways
We run in-person short courses at venues across our region throughout the year. These focus on the core skills needed to access and use a smartphone, including accessibility features such as magnification, display options and digital assistants, as well as an introduction to using a screen reader.
You do not need to attend a course to get support, and you do not need to wait for one to start. One-to-one support is also available. Contact us to talk through what support might suit you.
You don’t have to figure it out alone
Getting started with digital support does not mean committing to lots of new technology or making big changes straight away. It simply means having a conversation and exploring what might help.
Support is available even if you are not sure where to start. If you would like to talk about digital support or book an appointment with a Digital Skills Advisor, please contact us to find out what’s available.
If you’d like to understand more about the Digital Skills Support Service, including the types of support available and how to get in touch, you can read more on our Digital Skills Support Service page.