How our new initiative will help residents over-55 gain their digital stripes
“At Clarion we believe passionately that the internet is for all and that everyone should be adequately equipped, connected and confident using technology. ”
As more and more everyday services are shifting exclusively online, our mission is to ensure that our residents feel empowered and equipped to get connected, including those living in our over-55s housing schemes.
Having the skills and know-how of navigating the web with confidence is no longer a ‘nice to have’ or a luxury, but it is a vital part of everyday life. Routine tasks, from paying bills to booking a GP appointment, now require a significant chunk of time on the phone or are becoming harder to do other than from a digital device. This can have serious repercussions on an individual, sealing them into a life punctuated by inconvenience, difficulties and frustration.
Being digitally excluded can also have significant financial implications, with research highlighting that getting someone online can save them on average £560 per year. With the cost of living remaining expensive and the best deals on utilities usually to be found online, it is more important than ever we don’t leave anyone behind. Additionally, online platforms have become the primary way to access job opportunities, training programmes, and even to manage benefits, such as Universal Credit.
We also know that being online can deliver significant social benefits for older people, including helping to tackle social isolation, maintain independence, support lifelong learning, and improve health and wellbeing.
Bridging the digital divide
At Clarion Futures, however, we are all about providing people with the tools and support they need to overcome their challenges and flourish - including those who need a helping hand when it comes to things digital.
We believe passionately that the internet is for all, and our goal is to empower residents by helping them build digital skills and gain the confidence they need. We support 6,000 residents every year, whether that’s during our welcoming drop-in sessions that take place in hubs dotted across Clarion communities, or through a number of courses and workshops, many of which can now be accessed online for a more flexible way to learn.
Of course, it’s not just skills that can be a hurdle for people to cross but access to the right equipment and connectivity, which we address with our Digital Device scheme.
Breaking barriers with tech
This year, we're taking things a step further with our Low-Cost Tech pilot, a new partnership that will provide digital and wellbeing support to 50 residents living in seven of our over-55s housing schemes who are facing digital exclusion.
Developed through a collaboration between Clarion Futures’ Digital Support and Age Friendly Communities teams, along with contractor, Housing LIN, and funded by the Hallmark Foundation, the project will offer participants free broadband for 12 months and Android smartphones. All of this will be fortified by personalised digital skills training delivered directly under their roof.
With smart speakers fast becoming a staple fixture in many of our homes, Clarion 55, our National Ambassador network for residents aged 55 and over who help shape our services and programmes, asked us to trial Google Nest Hubs with participants. The potential these devices can offer older people is far-reaching, including the ability to access services, set reminders and alarms, provide easy access to information and entertainment, reduce isolation with hands-free video calls, plus control things like lights and thermostats, we are excited to see how the trial unfolds.
Get Online Week 2024
We are supporting this year’s #getonlineweek (14 - 20 October) by celebrating our team of Digital Champions, who help us in our vital mission to give everyone the tools, confidence and skills to get connected and thrive in a digital world.
Based in Digital Hubs in Clarion communities around the country, including libraries, community centres, over 55’s housing schemes and job clubs, these inspiring volunteers share our belief that the internet is for everyone. They are playing a crucial role in helping us bridge the digital divide by providing free one-to-one support that is tailored to everyone’s unique journey and their preferred pace; whether that’s getting the hang of using a digital device, sharpening budding digital skills or mastering new ones.
If you know someone who would benefit from help from a Digital Champion, or perhaps you would like to volunteer to become one yourself, please get in touch.