The organisations have joined forces to deliver a new Digital Skills Programme for older people aged 65 and over, designed to build confidence with tablets and everyday online services through friendly, practical and accessible support.
Delivered through P3 Charity's Older People's Visiting Support Service, the programme will take place in Wisbech, with six weekly sessions beginning on Wednesday 23 September.
The programme has been designed for older people who would like to feel more confident using technology, whether they are new to digital devices or would simply like some extra support navigating everyday online services.
Hannah Green, Contracts and Performance Manager at P3 Charity in the East of England, said:
Digital inclusion is increasingly important, particularly for older adults, as more services and platforms continue to move online and reduce face to face interactions. Our aim is to ensure that no one is left behind in this digital transition by helping older adults build the skills and confidence they need to navigate the online world safely and independently. By improving digital literacy, we can help people stay connected with family, friends and their communities, access essential services and support, and feel more confident in an increasingly digital society.
The six-week programme will cover a range of practical digital skills, including getting started with a tablet, connecting to Wi-Fi, communicating through messages and video calls, shopping safely online and using online banking. Participants will also learn how to recognise scams, create safer passwords and access digital health services, including the NHS App.
Each session will be delivered in a small group of around 10 participants, with time for questions, practice and individual support. Friendly trainers and support staff will be available throughout the programme, with printed step-by-step guides provided in accessible formats.
Participants will also have access to a tablet on loan for 12 weeks, including throughout the six-week programme, meaning they do not need to own or bring their own device to take part.
Dr Chris Bushby, Cambridge Online, said:
Digital skills are no longer a luxury; they are an essential part of everyday life. From keeping in touch with family and friends to accessing healthcare, banking and local services, technology can help people remain connected and independent. We are delighted to be working in partnership with P3 Charity to provide practical, supportive learning opportunities for older people across Cambridgeshire. Our approach focuses on building confidence at an individual pace, helping participants develop the skills they need to use digital technology safely, confidently and with greater independence. By removing barriers to digital access and learning, we can help ensure that older people are able to benefit fully from the opportunities the online world can offer.
The programme has been developed in response to the growing importance of digital skills in everyday life. As more services, information and opportunities move online, having the confidence and skills to use technology safely can help people stay connected, access essential services and maintain their independence.
According to Age UK, around 2.4 million older people have limited internet use, meaning they go online less than once a month or not at all. The charity has also found that one in three people aged over 60 say life has become harder over the past five years because more services have moved online.
For P3 Charity and Cambridge Online, the programme is an opportunity to provide practical, person-centred support that meets people where they are and gives them the time and space to learn at their own pace.
Alongside learning digital skills, the sessions will provide an opportunity for participants to ask questions, practise new skills and spend time with others in a supportive environment.
The Digital Skills Programme forms part of P3 Charity's wider Older People's Visiting Support Service, which supports older people across Cambridgeshire to maintain their independence, social connections and wellbeing.
For more information about P3 Charity's Older People's Visiting Support Service, visit https://p3charity.org/services/cambridgeshire-older-peoples-visiting-support-service
