Digital support: more information

Digital support at Explore Libraries

Getting online at home

Landline: contact your supplier and find out about their internet deals.

Mobile internet connection: you can get online without a landline. Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and mobile phone companies offer dongles. A dongle is a small box that you can use to connect your computer, tablet or phone to the internet and this can be used anywhere.

Mobile phone: If you already have a mobile phone you can swap to a smartphone. Or you can buy a SIM card for a tablet (just check if it will take a SIM card).

Companies will usually deliver equipment and provide help with set up.

To search for the best deals to help get someone online, a good place to start is The Money Advice Service or Money Saving Expert

Equipment

Buying a computer or tablet can be expensive. You can buy from a high street shop, or there are some more cost effective alternatives.

  • Getonline@home supply cut price laptops and computers to people on low incomes.
  • Choose.co.uk give advice on funding for technology.
  • Several trusted companies offer equipment at reduced prices. They are usually reconditioned machines. All have high Trustpilot scores. A listing here is not a recommendation

More help to get family and friends online

  • Age UK has information for people who are looking to boost their confidence online and get more out of using the internet
  • AbilityNet (0800 048 7642) Free personalised guidance, troubleshooting and assistance to older people and individuals living with any disability to get online
  • BT can give advice on how to help a friend or family member get online.
  • Digital Unite provide guides to all things digital from social media to online shopping.
  • The Skills Toolkit Free digital and numeracy courses to build your skills.
  • Top Tips on Tech is a series of videos and guides from BT and ITV to help people learn about different technologies and how to get the most out of them.

Tips for helping someone get started online

Make it relevant to them. Let them know the things that are available that they might be interested in. It could be handy for ordering groceries, or reading and listening to books. There are tons of activities, from sport to crafting, available online. If a person has a hobby they will find something online to interest them.

Be patient and go slowly. Getting used to something new is difficult, especially when it’s something completely alien. Take your time to explain, and be patient. It can take time to get the hang of something new. So you might need to go over things a few times. Make sure they have plenty of time to practise themselves, and try not to take over. Some of the jargon used can be confusing if you’re not used to it, so try to keep it simple.

Good reasons for going online

If someone is resistent to getting online, talking to them about the things they can do online is a good place to start.

  • There are lots of great ways for staying in touch with family and friends, no matter where they are in the world. From email to Zoom, you can even see people on video chat!
  • You can do your banking online, saving time queuing and avoiding trips out and phone calls to deal with your finances
  • Shopping online is a great way to save money and at this time, find the things you need without having to leave the house.
  • There are endless opportunities to take virtual tours and trips to places of interest such as National Parks and museums. You can also take in a show or two online. It’s like sitting in the audience without leaving your house!
  • There is a vast amount of information online. Handy for people studying or for children doing homework. Also useful if you’re a bit of a quizzer or just interested in finding out about the world.
  • More and more jobs are advertised online now. You can even apply for them directly or add your CV to job websites, so potential employers can find you.