Digital Access and Skills
How to improve your IT skills and stay safe online
Do you want to learn how to use a computer, get online or improve your IT skills?
So much of life now revolves around computers and the internet, it can be a real disadvantage if you are not ‘online’. Looking from the outside, it can all appear very complicated and daunting, but actually learning the basics of using a computer is very straightforward, whether it is accessing the internet or sending emails.
If you therefore don’t currently use a computer, but would like to learn how to do so at your own pace, or if you just want to improve your IT skills, there are people and organisations out there who can help. Here are several contacts for you, but there will be others.
Why not give it a go!
Ability Net digital skills training
AbilityNet’s friendly team of Digital Skills trainers can provide free digital skills training to support disabled adults and older people (65+ years).
Call their helpline on 0300 180 0028 during UK office hours to request a training session.
BS3 Tech and Talk
Tech and Talk is an ongoing series of social and computer cafés for people over 55 allowing them to come to a safe and friendly environment to ask questions about tech. The Talk and Tech Computer Cafe meets every Friday at the Snug in the Tobacco Factory 10:15 – 12:00
To find out more, call Jacqui on 07956 962422
Bristol Adult Learning
These courses may be more for those who want to develop existing IT skills, and there is a charge, but if you want to find out more see the booklet in your local library, or call 0117 9038844. Adult Education courses are normally held in the Stoke Lodge Centre.
To find out more, call 0117 903 8844.
Libraries
Pop into your local library, or call them, and talk to a member of staff about what they have to offer. This should include a straightforward online course which includes how to use a computer and online basics.
The central library telephone number is 0117 903 7250.
LinkAge Network
Find out more about IT support and advice that is on offer around Bristol. This currently includes support in Whitehall at the Beehive Centre with Ways2Work Bristol volunteers.
To find out more, call 0117 935 4471.
North Bristol Advice Centre
Free IT drop-in sessions on Tuesday 10:30am – 12:30pm at Langley Centre, Behind 6 Gainsborough Square, Lockleaze, BS7 9XA.
To find out more, call 0117 951 5751
Techy Tea Party at Greenway Centre and on tour! Run by Southmead Development Trust
Free digital support with your challenges like sending emails, using a smart phone, getting online and lots more. Free hot drink included at the Greenway centre and refreshments available at St Stephens Church.
Come and let one of our friendly volunteers support you with your device or try on one of ours.
Let us help to make life a little easier for you. Visit us at three locations in the community
- Mondays, 11am – 12.30pm, Greenway Centre, Doncaster Road, BS10 5PY – now every Monday by popular demand!
- Tuesdays, 1pm – 3pm, Southmead Library, 256 Greystoke Avenue, Bristol, BS10 6BQ
- 1st Wednesday of the month, 10.30am – 11.30am, St Stephens Church, Ullswater Rd, Southmead, Bristol BS10 6DP
If you have any questions or queries then please get in by calling on 0117 950 3335, email evepayne@southmead.org or pop into Greenway Centre and ask for Eve who works Mondays – Wednesdays.
Tell us what you think about this page by emailing info@bopf.org.uk