We're helping bridge the digital divide in Ashbourne
A project that helps older residents embrace digital technology has received a welcome boost thanks to our Community Chest fund.
Connex Community Support - a charity with offices in Ashbourne and Buxton - applied to our Community Chest, a funding pot for our customers and local charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations for any projects directly benefitting our customers; all applications are assessed against specific eligibility criteria by customers who sit on our Customer Voice Panel.
The charity has been awarded the funds to continue its successful Tea, Talk and Tech – or TTT – initiative. The weekly drop in sessions, held at The Pavilion in Ashbourne, provide a relaxed cafe style environment where people can enjoy refreshments while accessing one to one digital support from trained volunteers.
Originally launched in 2021, the project is open to all but is particularly popular with older people, many of whom face barriers when it comes to using smartphones, tablets and other digital devices. Volunteers, including those with IT backgrounds, help attendees with anything from setting up emails and using WhatsApp to managing online appointments and navigating the NHS app.
Andre Knirsch from Connex Community Support said: “This funding from Platform Housing will allows us to keep sessions running and reach even more people, especially Platform customers. We’ve already seen how powerful this kind of support can be, from helping people stay in touch with family, to giving them the skills to shop online or access their medical records with confidence.”
The Community Chest grant will cover key project costs, including room hire, volunteer expenses, promotional materials and safeguarding checks for new volunteers. The Pavilion venue offers good accessibility and the informal nature of the sessions makes them particularly welcoming.
Tracey Silk, our Community Engagement Officer said: “We have more than 600 Platform homes in Ashbourne and initiatives like Tea, Talk and Tech are a fantastic way to tackle digital exclusion and reduce loneliness. It’s a simple but effective idea and we are pleased to be supporting it once again.”
Since launching, the programme has gone from strength to strength with 40 individuals attending 11 sessions earlier this year. Connex is now working to expand its reach and ensure more Platform customers benefit from the service.
The Community Chest fund is available for our customers and community groups to support projects that tackle isolation, boost wellbeing and build stronger neighbourhoods. For more information, visit www.platformhg.com.
Photo caption : People enjoying Tea, Talk and Tech