Learning web basics and online safety in older age

AbilityNet and BT Group logos

Older man smiling in homeKeith Reynolds* is a member of the Stoke on Trent branch of Unite Union Retired Section. He and other members of the group attended some of AbilityNet's free BT Digital Skills sessions to learn more about how to navigate the online world. 

The free digital support is provided by the ongoing AbilityNet and BT Group partnership. 

Keith, in his mid 70s, is the local Neighbourhood Watch coordinator, and as part of that role his local Police North West Manager shared with him some information about AbilityNet's scam awareness sessions.

An introduction to online safety

The first session Keith attended was a group training workshop covering 'An introduction to the internet,' provided by AbilityNet BT Digital Skills Trainers, Sian and Rebecca.

This was followed by other hands-on sessions using smart phones and the internet.

"Online safety was an important element in addition to the basics of navigating the internet," says Keith.

"We were a mixed age group, with mixed abilities. Most of us managed to follow the tutorials well... all were made well aware of online safety," Keith continues. 

Download a free factsheet: Internet scams and how to avoid them

Updating devices and staying alert to risks

AbilityNet supported Keith and other people who attended the workshop to stay alert to the tricks that online scammers can use.

"For me personally what I learned most was how to stay safer and that is the most important thing," says Keith. The group also learned about updating their devices. 

Keith notes that if he hadn't been able to learn from the AbilityNet and BT Group's advice about online safety he would "keep trying, but very carefully avoid many - perhaps useful - sites."

AbilityNet and BT Group is pleased to be able to support Keith and others like him to better understand the evolving digital world. 

Get support using your phone, computer or tablet

Are you a disabled adult, or an older person*, who could benefit from digital skills training? Or do you work for a charity or organisation that supports older or disabled people?

Older man sitting in home with younger man pointing at laptop in helpful wayAbilityNet's friendly team of Digital Skills trainers can provide free digital skills training to support disabled adults and people *aged 65+ years in the following geographical areas:

  • Aberdeen, Dundee and Perth 
  • Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Scottish Central Belt
  • Newcastle upon Tyne, Durham and Hartlepool
  • Birmingham and the West Midlands
  • Cardiff, Swansea and Bristol
  • Greater London and London city
  • Brighton & Hove and Sussex

Free digital skills training to support disabled adults and people *aged 55+ years is also available in the following geographical areas:

  • Stoke
  • Preston

Get digital skills support

"The feedback was amazing from all the attendees and everyone learnt some top new tips" - organiser for group who received digital skills training in Birmingham
"Since I started to learn how to use the iPad I have been constantly worried about safety, so I was glad to learn how to avoid scams. I feel a lot safer now, I will remain cautious but will enjoy my day-to-day use of my iPad a little bit more" - attendee of scam awareness session in Wales
"Excellent teaching. A pleasure to learn in this atmosphere." - Learner in Stoke and Preston area
"The trainer was approachable and very patient with everyone who attended the session. Thank you so much, he brought great value to each session." - learner in Birmingham

Please note: Keith Reynolds is not the real name of the person profiled, and the image shown at the top of the page is a stock photo provided by the Centre for Ageing Better.

Sign up for free digital support

If you aren't based in the areas mentioned but would like to learn new digital skills too, AbilityNet can help you:

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