Responding to Covid-19 with tech help in Scotland

AbilityNet responded to the needs of an increased number of older and disabled people during the pandemic thanks to a Scottish Government grant. 

The Scottish government set up the Wellbeing Fund was to support charitable organisations, such as AbilityNet, providing essential services to people most affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

It recognised the vital need to provide technology support to those more likely to be isolated at this time. 

We wanted to make sure that older and disabled people knew we offer FREE support on using technology.

Technology can help people regain their independence, access vital online services like food shopping and prescriptions, and keep in contact with family members through the use of online tools. 

Working in Scottish communities

Having secured the fund, we appointed a new Community Relationship Officer in Scotland with a budget to reach out and advertise our FREE services. 

A principal aim was to network with local charities and organisations which we could support to get online and let them know they could refer clients to us for one-to-one advice and support.  

We aimed to reach 100 new clients, 30 new organisations and more than 300 individuals online.

Smashing targets in Scotland

In June and July, we've supported 118 new clients, contacted 35 organisations and supported 2,789 through our online factsheets and our My Computer My Way tool.

Also, we've recruited ten new volunteers to support older and disabled people make the most of their technology. 

Our volunteers are well-supported but don't take our word for it. Read what our volunteers say about their experiences of volunteering for us. 

As well as the individuals we've helped, and the organisations we've connected with, we've also been reaching out online using social media. Over 100,000 people have seen information about our services, and it's led to 110 immediate requests for help. 

We have also delivered a series of FREE webinars, and distributed over 1,000 leaflets. 

How AbilityNet can help

AbilityNet provides a range of free services to help disabled people and older people.

• Call our free Helpline. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will discuss any kind of computer problem and do their best to come up with a solution. We're open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm on 0800 269 545
• We have a range of factsheets that talk in detail about technology that might help you, which you can download for free. You may find our factsheets about voice recognition and keyboard alternatives useful.
• My Computer My Way. A free interactive guide to all the accessibility features built into current desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

Support AbilityNet

If you're able to help us, help others please donate to AbilityNet