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.
Tour de France comes to Lancaster district: Full route breakdown
Serial burglar jailed for seven years after spree of Lancaster break-ins
Storm boards on Morecambe Prom ahead of "exceptionally high tides" and strong winds
Councillor apologises and admits "we got things wrong" over Blue Badge parking survey
Heysham 2 apprentice scoops national award
Former MP David Morris officially selected as Conservative candidate for Morecambe and Lunesdale
Extra staff and extended opening hours among plans as Lancaster hospital prepares for winter
What's On: Our Halloween and bonfire/fireworks events guide
Lancaster champion calls for more respect for businesses after spate of youth crime
Lancaster MP "disappointed" in Government decision on Jackdaw gas field
Morecambe announced as key part of Lancashire stage of Tour de France
Lancaster, Morecambe and Carnforth Remembrance services announced
LISTEN: Lancaster prisoners carve penguins for Christmas trail with a difference
EXCLUSIVE: Massive Wagons to headline Lancaster Christmas Lights Switch On 2026
Morecambe mum celebrates podium success at Ms Great Britain Classic
LISTEN: Inside transformation of historic former Morecambe pub and hotel
Heysham car sales boss "massively disappointed" after losing appeal over ex-pub land
LISTEN: Photographer meets 'Alternative Kids' 46 years on for emotional reunion
Council deal with more than 4,000 fly-tipping incidents in Lancaster district since start of year
Police issue warning about cold callers in Carnforth
