The coronavirus pandemic has meant we have all seen a shift towards the use of technology for social activities and carrying out essential tasks, such as shopping and paying bills. Platforms such as Zoom and WhatsApp have seen an increase in their usage with many of our service users using these platforms for the first time.

We want to support our service users in maintaining the skills they have acquired during the pandemic and to encourage them to develop their digital skills further to enable them to benefit from the opportunities that being online can bring: being more connected, being part of the community, maintaining their independence – all aims which resonate with the mission of Link Age Southwark.

As a Digital Support Volunteer there are a variety of ways you can get involved: 

• In-Home Digital Buddy

Carrying out 6 (or more if necessary) weekly meet ups for up to 2 hours each week with an assessed service user who needs 1:1 support with tasks such as how to work their device and setting up an email. These sessions can also take place in Link Age Southwark offices where a home assessment of the service user has not been carried out. The timings of this role will be flexible to suit you and the service user.

• Ageing Well Southwark Drop-In Facilitator

Weekly shifts of 2 – 3 hours on a Monday in the East Dulwich area. The role will involve meeting and greeting older people and supporting them with addressing issues they have using their laptop, tablet or smartphone; or helping them complete online forms. The support you provide will include troubleshooting (if possible), making referrals/signposting older people to suitable services either within Link Age Southwark or elsewhere in the borough so that they can receive the support they need.

This role requires:

• A cheerful and friendly personality
• Good spoken English and communication/listening skills
• A passion to help others
• Confident in setting up and using tech including email, Zoom, installing Apps and troubleshooting IT issues
• Knowledge in using standard operating systems and software
• Commitment to providing regular support
• Honesty
• Good timekeeping and reliability
• Able to work independently
• Be empathetic towards the needs of older people
• Patient, understanding and non-judgemental attitude
• Attend an induction so that you are ready and confident about starting your volunteer role
• Complete a fully enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service application (we will pay for this)
• Provide two referees whom you have known for at least 2 years for a character reference, ideally one of which should be from a previous employer, education or volunteer organisation
• Understanding and commitment to working within the policies of Link Age Southwark, in particular health and safety, confidentiality, safeguarding and equality and diversity.

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You will gain a new experience in your local community, getting to know older people in your local area and playing a vital part in supporting older people to live independently. 

We cover all reasonable expenses and we are happy to provide references for volunteers who have completed 6 months of volunteering with us.

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How do I apply?

Complete online application form

If you would prefer, you can also download our application form here and email to [email protected]