A NATIONAL ROADSHOW giving people free advice and help with using the internet is coming to Moray next week.
With almost 17% of people in Scotland missing out on the benefits of being online, the Scottish Government’s ‘Let’s Get Online’ campaign is set to help people across Scotland get online with the help of the roadshow.
From keeping in touch with friends and family and searching for jobs, to managing bills and watching catch-up TV – the campaign aims to highlight the benefits the internet can provide.
The Let’s Get Online team will visit towns and cities across Scotland until 22 July offering free, informal, one-to-one, drop-in sessions on how to get online – with a session set for Moray, at the Asda Superstore in Elgin on June 9 from 10am until 6pm.
Trained and friendly staff will host over 100 sessions at a variety of locations ranging from supermarkets and job centres to local community hubs and shopping centres.
The team will help people experience the benefits of being online first hand by providing people with one-to-one support for a variety of online activities such as how to search for jobs, set up an email address, tips for safe internet shopping and banking and how to video call friends and family
Jeane Freeman, Minister for Social Security and Older People, said: “One in six of people in Scotland are missing out on the benefits of being online and we want to change that. We are committed to helping reduce social isolation amongst all age groups – being online can help reduce this risk while providing a better quality of life and improve education, health, wealth and well-being.
“We want to give people the support and knowledge they need to have the confidence to get online. These free sessions are taking place throughout Scotland and will provide vital advice to help those who are not online to make the first steps.”
TV presenter Carol Smillie, an ambassador for the Let’s Get Online campaign, said: “It’s not long ago that I struggled with emailing and now I’m able to edit my own family movie clips.
“My son helps me out with the tricky stuff but I’ve spent some time getting up to speed with the online world and now I think I’m pretty good. It just goes to show that it is never too late to have a go and get involved – don’t be afraid it’s easier than you think.”
The Let’s Get Online roadshow is supported by an information line which people can call on 0300 004 1000 to find out where and when their nearest session is, as well as information about other learning centres and courses in their local area.
Those online who know friends or family that would benefit from information about how to get online, should visit www.letsgetonline.scot.