Helping people to ‘spring online’
“At 71 I never thought I would do this, I am so glad I came”.
Digital Unite’s national digital inclusion campaign, Spring Online is taking place next week between 20 – 26 April 2015.
During this one week hundreds of free internet taster events are held right across the UK to inspire people, particularly older people, to develop a lasting use of the internet.
From Dundee to Dorchester, Belfast to Bromley and Kent to Kendal, events are taking place in Age UK branches, housing providers, libraries, community and learning centres and internet cafes. There are sessions devoted to tablets and smartphones, introductions to iPads and e-books, digital drop-in sessions, IT and biscuit events and much more.
Despite being in its 14th year Spring Online is still as relevant as ever with 1 in 5 adults lacking Basic Digital Skills¹ and around 6.4 million having never used the internet, many of which are over 55 years².
Kathy Valdes, Managing Director of Digital Unite said: “In today’s modern society having the skills to use digital technology is a must-have. It can save people time and money, make people feel more connected, less lonely and better informed. Over the years Spring Online has made a huge difference in helping to break down the barriers people face to being online. With the involvement of our fantastic event holders once again this year we look forward to seeing more people be inspired to make digital a part of their everyday lives.”
Source ¹BBC/²ONS