By Jo Thewlis, Political reporter for Norfolk, BBC News
Jo Thewlis
Tessa, a 72-year-old resident of King’s Lynn in west Norfolk, credits technology for alleviating her sense of isolation.
Formerly relying on written notes on a whiteboard to communicate with her husband, Tessa’s life took a transformative turn when she received a smartphone through a digital isolation intervention. This device enabled her to utilize an app that transcribes spoken words, serving as her “new ears” and significantly enhancing her communication abilities.
The initiative responsible for this positive change, known as the Tech Skills for Life scheme, was initiated by Norfolk County Council in collaboration with the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, the NHS, and various volunteer organizations. This joint effort aims to empower individuals to navigate technology effectively and access online services seamlessly.
Expressing her gratitude for the project, Tessa remarked, “I’ve lost the isolation. My life is a lot better. It’s worth living.”
Jo Thewlis
Leading the Tech Skills for Life project in west Norfolk is Gail Harvey, the digital inclusion manager at the county council. Recognizing the pressing need to address digital exclusion and promote safe technology usage, Gail emphasized the initiative’s broader impact beyond health and social care. She highlighted the critical role technology plays in combating social isolation and loneliness by facilitating connections with loved ones and online communities.
Gail Harvey stated, “We want people to be able to use technology safely and securely. Not just for health and social care, but there is a massive problem with social isolation and loneliness. For people to be able to talk to friends and families, to be able to go online and find groups is brilliant.”
Digital exclusion
West Norfolk was specifically chosen as the launch site for the pilot program due to its significant prevalence of digital exclusion. This exclusion manifests in various forms, including limited access to technology, financial constraints hindering internet connectivity, and a lack of digital literacy.
To address these challenges, the initiative offers complimentary laptops, tablets, and data packages to individuals facing barriers to online access. Over 2,800 residents have already benefited from these provisions. Furthermore, the partnership conducts informative sessions on utilizing technology effectively and safeguarding against online scams.
Jo Thewlis
Playing a pivotal role as a community tech coach within the scheme is Janie Brister. Reflecting on her experiences, Janie highlighted the diverse nature of her engagements, ranging from assisting individuals with phones, tablets, and computers to navigating smart TVs. She emphasized the positive impact of the program in fostering communication and connectivity among the residents of West Norfolk, a community she described as somewhat secluded and isolated.
Janie Brister shared, “Every appointment is different. I’ve helped people on phones, tablets, computers, with tellies. It’s just such a broad spectrum of different devices. Especially round West Norfolk, I think everyone is a bit secluded, we’re a bit isolated. So it’s been really good to see people be able to communicate.”