Digital Inclusion Project: Empowering Residents with Technology

Digital Ambassador in action

The South Essex Homes Digital Inclusion project launched in 2020 and and aims to support residents in Sheltered Housing in becoming comfortable and proficient with modern technology.

Project Goals:

  • Education:  Helping residents understand the benefits of technology.
  • Empowerment:  Enabling residents to embrace the changes technology can bring to their daily lives.
  • Confidence Building:  Digital Ambassadors assisting residents in gaining the confidence to use modern technology effectively.

Here's what the residents are saying:

The training I received was excellent and the skills learnt were good and well understanding with clear explanation. - Resident at Nicholson House

Thanks to my Digital Ambassador, I now send emails and have learnt all I could. She is very patient and a joy to work with! - Resident at Centurion Close

My Digital Ambassador was a very patient and understanding tutor, and was very good at explaining all to me, I am very grateful for all her teaching. - Resident at Centurion Close

Get Involved

If you live in Sheltered Housing and you have a digital device or would like to learn on a Chromebook loaned from South Essex Homes, please contact Sue Rickard in the Resident Engagement Team on 0800 833 160 or via email to residentengagement@seh.southend.gov.uk        

This project is an excellent opportunity for residents in Sheltered Housing to enhance their digital skills, stay connected with loved ones and enjoy the numerous benefits that technology offers. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to improve your sills, the Digital Project is here to help!

Become a Digital Ambassador – We need you!

Volunteering can help you feel connected with your community and is a great way of making new friends. It also gives a sense of accomplishment when you have helped someone discover a new skill.

What is a Digital Ambassador?

As a Digital Ambassador, you will use your basic IT skills, patience, empathy and enthusiasm to support residents in Sheltered Schemes. This is a rewarding role where you can make a significant impact by helping others become more digitally literate.

What we offer?

  • Time Commitment:  Volunteers generally give 1-2 hours per week training residents
  • Support:  You will be supported by the Resident Engagement Team staff and have regular contact with them to ensure you have everything you need to succeed in your role.

Interested in becoming a Digital Ambassador?

If you are interested in becoming a Digital Ambassador, please contact Sue Rickard in the Resident Engagement Team. You can contact her via:

Find out more about the project in the video below: