Volunteer Digital Champions
As a Digital Champion you’ll support others to learn the basics of digital devices and the Internet in a relaxed, informal environment. You’ll offer advice, information and support to local adults who want to get online and learn how to use a computer for the first time or improve their confidence with the basics.
Digital Champions work with learners on a one-to-one basis or in a small group. They tend to meet in a public venue such as: a library, Wi-Fi enabled café, or community centre, and in exceptional circumstances in the learner’s own home. Champions might support a session at a local community centre or sheltered housing scheme or volunteer to support someone else’s class at such a venue. There are lots of different ways to help.
- Helping residents learn the basics e.g., teaching someone how to use Google, use the mouse and keyboard or set up an email account.
- Helping residents understand the benefits of getting online e.g., showing them how to search or apply for a job online, shop and bank online or use Skype to connect with family and friends.
- Helping residents make their devices accessible and keeping them up to date and performing well.
- Acting as an advocate of the benefits of being online.
Aside from simply giving something back to your community, there are lots of other potential benefits for you, such as:
- Improving your own knowledge and confidence in using digital devices and the Internet.
- Gaining valuable experience and organisational skills which can help build your CV.
- Getting involved in new projects and organisations, opening up other opportunities for volunteering and employment.
- Meeting other Digital Champions and making new connections locally.
VIVID will support you and recognise your commitment in several ways, including:
- Giving you access to training, resources, and an online community for volunteer digital champions across the country through Digital Unite's Digital Champion's Network
- Providing you with a named contact at VIVID who will give you ongoing support
- Making sure you’re not out of pocket by covering all reasonable expenses
- Wherever possible, matching you with local digital skills projects or to individual residents who have requested support
- Providing opportunities for recognition through resident & volunteer reward schemes
- Providing a personal reference for your CV and a completion certificate
- Providing IT equipment for sessions where needed
Volunteer Digital Champions are needed in various different local communities to help support residents and others to get online.
Tasks can be undertaken at a time that’s convenient to both the volunteer, the learner and the venue. You can do as many hours as you wish, but most Digital Champions will give around 2 hours of their time a week.
To be a Digital Champion you must be:
- Aged 18 years or over at the time of applying.
- A UK resident or have permission to live in the UK.
- Willing to authorise a Disclosure and Barring Service check.
You can either get in contact with us and ask to speak to the Employment and Training team or pop an email over to digitalinclusion@vividhomes.co.uk