Post Office Broadband is teaming up with Google Digital Garage to help those in need by running a free workshop on 3rd August in Cardiff Central Library Hub.
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Recent research conducted by Post Office Broadband found three quarters (73%) of people in Cardiff would like support to improve their tech skills.
Cardiff citizens particularly struggle when using newer digital devices, with 54% lacking confidence with smart music device, half with smart watches or smart home devices (both 53%), and 33% with smart TVs. A significant number of people also struggle with everyday devices, such as apps (26%), smartphones (22%) and tablets (18%). Looking across the whole of the UK, even 16% of 18-24 year olds lack assurance with technology – 22% are not confident with smart TVs, 33% with a smart watch, and 27% with a smart music device.
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The Digital Drop-In sessions will cover a variety of topics, helping people get started online and building their confidence, sessions on staying safe, and attendees can also bring along devices for hands on support to get the most from phones, laptops and other devices.
Crisis of confidence
Those who don’t feel assured using technology attribute it to a knowledge gap. Exactly half (50%) in Cardiff say they’ve never been taught how to use their devices, a third (36%) don’t know how to set them up, and 35% don’t fully understand the features on them. Furthermore, 20% think their devices are too complicated, while 20% also worry about the consequences of doing something wrong.
Supporting certain areas
While people in Cardiff feel confident with basic digital skills, there are a range of areas which they would like further support, including:
• Understanding how to get the most out of everyday smart devices (32%)
• Understanding how to work smart devices (22%)
• Using shortcuts on smart devices (22%)
Two thirds (69%) of those who’d like support would feel more confident if they receive it.
Meredith Sharples, Director, Post Office Broadband commented:
“Advancements in technology have enhanced our lives in so many ways, yet it’s likely many of us will have found the pace of all this change daunting at one time or another.
“Post Office Broadband has partnered with Google’s Digital Garage programme to give people in Cardiff a comfortable space to ask any questions and learn how they can get the most from the internet and their internet enabled devices.”
Ronan Harris, Google UK & Ireland Managing Director, said:
“In the digital age, a basic understanding of how the online world works is useful and when it comes to business, it’s essential. We are delighted to partner with the Post Office and ensure everyone has access to free digital skills workshops and 1:1 coaching. We hope you’ll pop in and get the skills you need to you need to grow your confidence, career or business.”
Cardiff Council Cabinet Member for Finance, Modernisation and Performance, Cllr Chris Weaver, said:
“The world is becoming increasingly digitised and the council is committed to delivering quality public digital services, that are simple and convenient to use and meet the needs of our customers.
“We can provide support and assistance for people who need help building their digital knowledge and skills. Our Cardiff Get Online project, delivered in our hubs, is available to all residents and offers free and informal advice including basic computer skills, using the internet, online banking and so on. We also have a fantastic team of digital volunteers in our hubs that provide an invaluable service to help people become more digitally confident.
“We’re happy to welcome Post Office Broadband and Google Digital Garage to build on the digital support we provide to Cardiff residents, and we would encourage anyone in the area to sign up and come along to the free event, receive the expert guidance on offer and find out more about the digital skills sessions in Cardiff Libraries and Hubs.”
The Post Office Broadband and Google Digital Garage Digital Drop-In will be held at Cardiff Central Library Hub on Friday 3rd August between 10am and 1pm. For more information or to register your interest in attending, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/post-office-digital-drop-in-workshop-cardiff-central-library-hub-tickets-46646949281 or call 0800 068 1791.
