8th October 2024

In an increasingly digital world, building digital skills isn’t just an advantage; it’s essential. From accessing online services to keeping in touch with friends and family, feeling comfortable with technology can significantly improve daily life. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking to brush up on certain skills, here’s a guide to free resources that can help you boost your digital skills and confidence.

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1. Learn My Way

• About: Learn My Way offers free online courses to help you gain confidence using computers, the internet, and popular applications.
• What’s Covered: Courses range from using the internet and handling online security to managing money and health online.
• How to Access: Visit learnmyway.com to sign up and get started.

2. Digital Unite

• About: Digital Unite provides easy-to-follow guides on topics from setting up an email to troubleshooting tech issues.
• What’s Covered: Their guides cover essential skills, like using social media, online shopping, staying safe online, and even basic video calling.
• How to Access: Browse resources at digitalunite.com.

3. Barclays Digital Eagles

• About: The Barclays Digital Eagles programme offers free online courses and video guides, along with in-person support at select locations.
• What’s Covered: Topics include cybersecurity, managing money online, online shopping, and more.
• How to Access: Visit barclays.co.uk/digital-confidence/eagles/ or check with your local Barclays branch.

4. The Good Things Foundation

• About: This charity provides a wide variety of digital skills courses tailored for those new to technology.
• What’s Covered: Lessons on creating CVs, job hunting online, online banking, and health services.
• How to Access: Many local libraries and community centres partner with The Good Things Foundation. You can find local support by visiting goodthingsfoundation.org.

5. OpenLearn from the Open University

• About: OpenLearn provides hundreds of free courses on diverse topics, including digital skills for the workplace.
• What’s Covered: From beginner courses on computing to advanced digital skills, there’s something for all levels.
• How to Access: Explore the range at open.edu/openlearn/.

6. BT Skills for Tomorrow

• About: BT Skills for Tomorrow offers digital skills training to help you connect with people and services safely online.
• What’s Covered: Topics include internet basics, online safety, video calling, and using digital tools for everyday life.
• How to Access: Get started at bt.com/skillsfortomorrow.

7. Libraries and Local Digital Hubs

• About: Many local libraries offer free Wi-Fi, computer access, and even basic digital skills courses.
• How to Find: Contact your nearest library or council’s website for details on available courses and resources.

8. Digital Skills Partnerships

• About: Local Digital Skills Partnerships work to close the digital skills gap and are supported by the government.
• What’s Covered: These partnerships often provide free or low-cost workshops and training sessions.
• How to Find: Search for your regional Digital Skills Partnership online or check with your local council.

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Improving your digital skills not only boosts your confidence but also opens doors to new opportunities, making it easier to manage tasks, stay informed, and stay connected. So take the first step and explore these resources today. Digital skills are for everyone—let’s get started together!

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