Free support delivered remotely, over the phone or via an online platform.
Helplines and ad hoc support
The Tech Ladder
The Tech Ladder is a Social Enterprise in Beeston and Holbeck offering free digital skills support for anyone in the city. They take a person-centred approach, offering support, training and advice by telephone, email, WhatsApp, Zoom, and other platforms- whatever works best for the learner. They have a large bank of volunteers and can match volunteers with learners by language. To access support call 07864639037
Leeds Libraries
If you or someone you know is struggling with this, your local library can provide free help. They can answer quick digital enquiries and also provide free one-to-one support sessions, help with getting online and: keeping in touch with family and friends; setting up and using emails; learning how to use your tablet or device; and access to some of the free library digital resources such as eBooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers.
Phone 0113 378 5005 for help or to find out more.
AbilityNet
AbilityNet’s ITCanHelp volunteers provide free IT support to older people and people with disabilities of any age. ‘Disabilities’ includes people with learning disabilities, people with sensory impairments, people with Dementia and memory issues, older people etc. Their volunteers are all disclosure-checked and can help with all sorts of IT challenges, from setting up new equipment, fixing technical issues, showing you how to stay connected to family and use online services.
You can request their support by:
- Using the ‘Request help‘ form
- Calling the helpline on 0800 048 7642 (freephone and minicom) during UK office hours
- Sending an email to enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk
Age UK Leeds
Age UK Leeds are offering over the phone support to elderly individuals to assist them with video calling on WhatsApp, Facebook or Skype. They must have a landline and have a reasonable basic understanding of how to use a tablet or smartphone. They can have an Android or Apple product and can live anywhere in the Leeds area. An Age UK Digital Champion will call the older person at a pre-arranged time to try and assist them to get connected. If needed, each session can last for up to one hour (if the service user wants or needs that amount of time). More than one session can be available. The Digital Champion will absolutely do their best, but cannot guarantee success due to the challenges of training over the phone. To refer someone, book an appointment, or for more details, contact Lee at 07983 216 552
Informal groups and classes
Get Technology Together
GTT have taken their classes online and are able to offer telephone support to get you started. Check the calendar for classes and register on their website – GTT will be in touch within 24 hours with details of how to join the online sessions. Alternatively call or email GTT at 07754 391498 / info@gtt.org.uk
Leeds Irish Health and Homes
Free interactive online digital skills support sessions aimed at older people but open to all, delivered Thursdays 1.30 – 2.30pm. For more information and to join contact 0113 2625614
Live Well Leeds
Online Tech Group, Tuesdays, 1 – 3pm, open to all. Delivered via Zoom. To Join Call Miah on 07388227387. At tech group, clients are supported to understand more about smart phones, tablets, basic computer knowledge, how to set up emails and book appointments online and many more. The group also supports clients to understand and to explore social media and to learn how to be safe online. During our zoom meetings, technical issues raised are tackled by anyone with good knowledge of the issue being discussed.
Formal and accredited courses
Leeds Learning Hub
Leeds Adult Learning offers a range of first step courses for adults, including digital and IT courses. Courses take place across the city in a variety of different venues, though most are currently delivered virtually. Whether you are looking to learn a new skill, help your child or develop your skills to find work there will be a course for you. Many courses are free subject to personal circumstances.
WEA
WEA offer free and low cost courses covering many subjects including basic digital skills. Learners without access to wifi or equipment can apply for additional learner support
