Tech Ready: improving digital confidence
Will Marcombe, Digital Inclusion Officer at the West of England Rural Network (WERN) blogs about the outreach tech support he is providing to residents
I’ve been running the North Somerset Tech Ready project since September 2024. This is a free service, funded by North Somerset Council, supporting people living in rural North Somerset aged 50 or over, with their technology needs. Whether it’s offering additional help with using a mobile phone, navigating a computer, or getting to grips with a tablet, I am able to provide personalised support to make the use of digital devices more accessible and less intimidating.
What sets this project apart from other tech support sessions - which are often located in a central location like a village hall - is that I am able visit people in their own homes. People I’ve supported have found this aspect of the project invaluable. This is especially the case where they are isolated because of poor rural transport connections, mobility issues or no longer being able to drive. By bringing the Tech Ready service directly to their door, the projects ensures that they receive the help they need in a familiar and comfortable environment. This personal approach has been invaluable to many, giving them the confidence to learn technology at their own pace and in their own personal space.
Another key benefit of a home visit, is the ability to troubleshoot problems with devices that simply can’t be brought to a remote digital support session. Since launching the project, I’ve dealt with everything from paper eating printers and stubborn Wi-Fi routers, to desktop computers that operate at the speed of a hibernating tortoise! These are issues that can only be addressed in the home, and people have really appreciated having someone they can turn to for support and for solutions.
Technology is evolving rapidly, and society is increasingly dependent on digital tools for everyday tasks. Even something as simple as paying for parking now requires a smartphone and a downloaded app. While some see this as a convenient solution to not carrying cash, for others it can be a significant barrier to getting out of the house and going shopping, or meeting people. By showing people how to use these types of digital technologies, I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact this can have on their confidence, quality of life, and ability to stay connected with the world.
The feedback I’ve received has been incredible, reinforcing just how much this service is making a difference to over 50s in North Somerset. Here’s a few kind words that have been shared with me so far:
"You kindly put me in touch with Will, the IT guy, to help me with a problem with my printer. This is just to say thank you so much, particularly to Will for helping resolve the issues. I am very grateful for the help and support. It was not an easy issue, but thankfully all sorted now!"
"I saw [customer] yesterday. She was singing your praises. We now have the Attendance Allowance form and the Blue Badge application completed. Great result!"
"You are making quite an impression on our customers. I have had two calls from people in my villages that you have visited to say how helpful and lovely you are. I feel your project is really important and one that is truly making a difference."
It’s a real pleasure knowing that North Somerset Tech Ready is helping people feel more confident and connected in an increasingly digital world. Technology should empower, not exclude and I’m happy to have the opportunity to play a role in making it accessible for everyone.
For more information or to arrange support, click here