News

Digital Skills: What are they and why are they important?

Ever imagined what it would be like to live without a phone, or have no access to the internet? For thousands of disadvantaged people, this could be a situation they find themselves in through no fault of their own. Maybe they have never had the finance to afford a phone, been shown how to access the internet or simply do not have the opportunity to learn the basic skills to get online, which are essential to live in today’s digital world. What are digital skills? Having the ability to use digital devices and the internet. It is how we communicate, how we consume our news, how we shop, and how we entertain ourselves, and without them, it is impossible to live a full life in today’s society. Through our digital skills training, we aim to close the digital divide for disadvantaged people. From an initial assessment to ascertain their needs, to working on a 1-to-1 basis at the learner's pace, we empower individuals to take greater control of their lives through digital skills, gaining vocational opportunities and having the confidence to live their lives to the fullest. How we know we are making a difference... “The sessions were very good. My trainer was very calm, explained things to me very well, and judged the timing of when breaks were needed very well on this course. It’s given me more confidence to do things for myself and not rely on other people. I will use all the things I’ve learned like the Google Maps feature to plan my journeys, and Facebook more often now.” - Michael, Digital Skills Client. “I’ve been happy to learn how to use my tablet and second-hand smartphone with the trainers. They were very patient with me as I learnt how to use email, shop online, fill out online forms, and use Zoom. I was so pleased to have this opportunity to learn all of this, and I know several of my friends have said they would love the opportunity too. I wish I was this computer literate during lockdown, but I'm so grateful for these lessons now. Thank you!” - Jess, Outreach Training Client. “I felt more confident and learned more than I could have imagined, a real eye opener. My trainer was so patient and never made me feel an idiot. I now feel more confident about using the phone, and I was sorry when the course finished. It was so enjoyable.” - Mrs B, Outreach Training Client If you or someone you know could benefit from our training, please give us a call on 01892 833606 and we can discuss how we can help you. https://www.compaid.org.uk/digital-skills/training-centre/

Nominet & Mantra raise £10,000 for Compaid

Thanks to Tonbridge-based design agency, Mantra, who have successfully raised £10,000 for Compaid. As a longstanding member of Nominet, Mantra qualified to nominate a local charity for a grant as part of their Members’ Givehub programme. The funding, which forms part of Nominet’s wide-ranging impact programme, is aimed at improving the lives of one million young people each year through technology. The £10,000 contribution will be used towards the running costs of Compaid’s training centre to help vulnerable people gain digital skills and safely navigate the internet. “I am thrilled that Compaid’s application for a £10,000 grant from Nominet’s GiveHub was successful. The funding will really benefit the fantastic work and services Compaid provide in the community.” – Greg Findley, Mantra Design.

Out and About transport services launch in Maidstone and Sevenoaks

Compaid has launched two new dial-a-ride, accessible transport services in Maidstone and Sevenoaks for disabled and older people, thanks to funding from Motability. These Out and About minibus services run between 9.30am and 4.00pm from Monday to Friday, providing journeys to anywhere within the boroughs for up to four passengers, including one space for a passenger in a wheelchair. Each single journey costs passengers £2 for the first two miles and £1 for every additional mile. Return journeys will be charged seperately. These and other costs of delivering the service are funded by a grant from Motability. Similar services have been running for the past year in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge and Malling with funding from the National Lottery. Bookings can be made by calling 01892 832447 and more information can be found here. We look forward to helping residents of Sevenoaks and Maidstone get out and about!

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