Posted on: Friday 7 August 2020
A Torfaen Social Care project which aims to support digitally excluded residents in Torfaen is once again taking appointments to conduct home visits.
The last few months have been difficult for us all, but there have been some silver linings. Many people have found that technology has helped them stay in touch with family and friends, do a weekly shop online or learn a new skill.
The Torfaen Tech Coach Service is available to older people, carers and those with a disability living in Torfaen. It offers free support and advice to residents to help them use technology to do what’s important to them.
Mrs Worthington, 93, who lives in Cwmbran needed support using her tablet computer just before the lockdown period began, she said, “The service has changed my life during lockdown as I feel I am still in contact with the outside world. The Tech Coach has taught me so much in such a short space of time and it has been very beneficial. My family wonder how I know so much!”
Since its launch in October 2019 the Tech Coach Service has supported 36 people to get online; chat online; listen to music; send emails; set up Alexa; change phone and broadband provider; watch catch up TV; study the Bible; send a text; among other things.
Executive Member for Adult Services and Housing, Cllr David Daniels said, 'The Tech Coach is a fantastic service which offers the people of Torfaen the chance to become more independent through the use of technology.
As we've seen throughout the pandemic, technology can offer an alternative way to shop, get help or advice, and - most importantly throughout lockdown - can help bring us all together.
The service has been a lifeline for many residents throughout the lockdown period, where they have been able to access over the phone and online support to help them access essential online services and be able to contact family and friends.
Now that the service is once again conducting home visits, if you know someone that would benefit then please get in touch.'
Residents who are shielding will only be able to request a home visit after 16th August, as set out by Welsh Government’s COVID-19 guidelines.
Residents can request an appointment by calling the team on 01495 762200.