Becoming a Digital Champion
A 'Digital Champion' is someone who supports family, friends, colleagues, customers, or people in their community to enjoy all the benefits that Basic Online Skills can bring.
Are you IT-savvy with skills to share? Can you help those who aren't so confident to start using the net, their smartphones, and tablets?
Would you like to help your local community with 'Computers and a Cuppa'? A project that gives older people the opportunity to explore Information Technology through fun learning from each other.
Communities 1st is looking for people in Hertsmere to train as digital Champions to support this initiative, which provides a social and informal environment for older people to gain confidence in various IT equipment and learn together while socializing.
Professional skills would be welcomed but are not essential. We are looking for friendly, proactive volunteers who have an interest in supporting people and are able to help get this group off the ground and get involved on the day of the sessions.
Why are Digital Champions Important?
Digital Champions are key to creating and sustaining successful digital skills, projects and programs that support others within their community.
What will I be doing?
You don't need to be an IT whizz or guru to become a Digital Champion in your community. You just need a bit of spare time and enthusiasm to support others in experiencing the benefits of the internet and digital technology."
What We're Looking For
We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience:
- Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
- Comfortable with their own abilities and knowledge of being able to get online.
- Able to use computers, search the internet and send emails.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Flexible approach and willingness to work as part of a team.
- Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.
- Be patient, reliable and organised.
- Able to explain things easily and clearly.
- Can commit at least 1 day per month.
Practical Considerations
- Digital Champions will be required to help learners within their local community possibly at a library or other communal place.
- No formal qualifications or prior guiding experience are required to volunteer with us.
- We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and abilities.
- A full charity induction will be given before the volunteer starts with us and ongoing training is offered depending on which event you are working on.
- Home-based and in your local area.
- References will be required from applications and will be taken up.
- Please apply asap as the application will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Volunteers MUST be over 16 (or be accompanied by an adult if under 16).
- A minimum of six-month commitment is required.
Benefits
- Once a number of sessions have been completed we will be happy to provide a reference.
- Gain basic office skills, with an opportunity to progress into more varied roles.
- Out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed.
- Satisfaction from helping people
- Positive work environment, part of the friendly Community Hertsmere Team.
- Training in Equality & Diversity and Customer Service.
Messages from one of our Digital Champions
Fiona is one of our Digital Champions; she helps local people gain skills and confidence to stay connected through technology.
"Digital access is now such a big part of our everyday existence... it is important to remember that everyone is at different levels of ability. It's great to be a part of a team that genuinely wants to help improve people's confidence, overall well-being and safety online" - Fiona (Digital Champion)
Contact Us
If you would like to find out more about this service, please call us on 01727 649950 or email volunteer@communities1st.org.uk.
Our telephone lines are open on Mondays - Fridays, 09:00 - 16:30.
Do you want to become a volunteer? Sign up below:
Volunteering Opportunities
Volunteering Opportunities
