AbilityNet volunteer celebrates 25 years helping people use technology

Sarah Botterill | 16 Nov 2020

A head and shoulders shot of DavidAbilityNet Volunteer David Brew is celebrating his silver jubilee as an AbilityNet volunteer.

David, who is a county coordinator in Belfast Ireland, began volunteering for us in 1995 when he was working as a Consultant for the Department of Trade and Industry.

He is one of over 300 DBS-checked volunteers who support disabled and older people at home, and remotely, to make the most of their technology. 

The recent coronavirus has shown David the power of technology in a time of physical distancing. 

Read an interview with David celebrating volunteers week and 20 years of service.

Volunteering provides a glow of satisfaction.

“I assist those who require help in every aspect of technology, from setting up an internet connection, to how to use Zoom calls. At the moment, this is very important for many in the current climate of Covid-19 as social isolation is high,” said David.

Asked what the best thing is about volunteering is, David told us:

"It has to be the glow of satisfaction you get from someone’s gratitude when you help them. I was always fascinated by big data, a safe internet, assistive technology and web accessibility, so for me, AbilityNet was the perfect fit.”

Do you have skills that could help older and disabled people with tech? Volunteer for us.


He continued: “ If anyone is thinking of volunteering, I would highly recommend it as I can’t express enough the feelings that you get when you make a huge difference to someone’s life, and you can really see that, you know, for me, it might not seem like much, but to them it’s everything.”

David has a great passion for helping others, and his dedication has been evident over the years at AbilityNet. We wish him every success as he continues to help our clients.

Sarah Brain, AbilityNet Free Services Manager said:

"What an amazing commitment to a volunteering role, managing his local team of volunteers to support so many clients across Northern Ireland to use and adapt their technology.

AbilityNet Northern Ireland has always been in such capable and knowledgeable hands with David, I can't thank him enough for his support."

Helping vulnerable people at a time of crisis

All our volunteers have provided vital support during these difficult times. Find out how we have:

How AbilityNet can help