A Lancaster volunteer organisation have launched a ‘digital buddies’ scheme to support people in how to make better use of smartphones and computers.
Bay Volunteers supports the needs of people and communities across the Lancaster District, working with partners including Lancaster City Council, Lancaster District Community Hub, Lancaster District CVS, Lancaster and Bay Integrated Care Communities, Lancaster University Students' Union, among many others to bring support to those in our community who need it.
They also offer a Support Line where volunteers can sign up and pick which requests they are able to do, which mainly include shopping for someone, collecting and delivering post/parcels, collecting and delivering prescriptions, or befriending/listening calls for someone over the phone, as well as other requests like going on a listening walk with someone.
Now, they’ve launched their new service – Digital Buddies.
Matt Parker, Bay Volunteers manager, explains more. Click here to listen to our interview in full:
Matt says: ‘’In recent months, we’ve seen an even greater increase in referrals of people needing our support, but it’s good that we’re finding help for them.
‘’Volunteer numbers have increased too which is great, but we always need more! The message is getting out there to support.
‘’We want to be here long term to help people who need it and stop them having to perhaps go into care or needing more NHS or council services.
‘’Our current work of things like doing shopping, picking up prescriptions and listening walks and talks we’re now launching our digital buddy support service. The idea is to help people who are isolated in their homes, housebound, or disconnected from family or friends, to better use technology.
‘’It could be teaching them how to use Zoom or WhatsApp, maybe they need an email address, or want to order a prescription online, we can help connect people.
‘’Anyone with access to a phone, tablet or computer can be helped. Sometimes there’s a fear of using technology or of being scammed. We can send people to help them on their way.’’
Search for them on social media, or call 01524 841941.
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