AN INDEPENDENT charity is doing all it can to help older people gets to grips with information technology and stay in touch with family and friends.

Age UK Devon understands that for some of the older generation using technology can be daunting and difficult to know where to start.

However, during the pandemic digital technology has been a lifeline for many to stay in touch with friends and family, particularly whilst having to shield and Age UK Devon IT volunteers have been providing support to older people over the telephone by taking them through how to use video calling apps such as Zoom, WhatsApp and Facetime.

Trish Warren, Active in Later Life manager, said: ‘Our volunteers are dedicated to helping older people get online.

‘We would like to reach out to older people to help make this happen and to brighten their days.

‘Sharing precious moments with a friend or family member makes such a huge difference, especially to those living alone and having to shield.’

Telephone calls are tailored to the older person’s needs and volunteers will teach how to use the app of their choice. All the volunteers providing the service have backgrounds in IT and have undergone a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.

The telephone support is provided free-of-charge, but donations to Age UK Devon will be gratefully received.

If you, or a friend or family member, would like some support to connect with others then call Age UK Devon on 0333 241 2340 or email them at [email protected]