Call for Shrewsbury’s over 65s to learn how to use the Internet in countywide training offer

A call is being made for Shrewsbury’s over 65 population to sign up for free Internet training sessions being provided by Shropshire Council.

In total, 500 people countywide will be taught all they need to know about being online safely through a network of friendly IT clubs offering one-to-one support by tech-savvy volunteers.

Shropshire Council is currently rolling out more sessions out at its libraries in and around Shrewsbury.

Mirka Duxberry, Shropshire Council’s library development manager, said:-

“Our IT clubs offer free weekly one-to-one tuition from our team of friendly digital volunteers.

“Each session lasts an hour, and it takes about eight weeks for most learners to gain all the skills they need.”

Previous participants are delighted with their new-found skills.

A digital volunteer at Shrewsbury Library

One 74-year-old former builder said:-

“I could just about use my iPad to call my son in Australia and nothing else. Now, after just a few sessions, I can look things up on Google, send messages and emails, and watch Netflix. I look forward to the IT Club all week and my son keeps saying ‘Welcome to the 21st century Dad!’”

Another participant, aged 80, added:-

“I realise now that the Internet is a wonderful tool. I can see the benefits it brings, and I don’t think I would go back to life without it now.”

Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for communities, culture, leisure and tourism, and transport, said:-

“As we move further into accessing services digitally, it is important that no-one feels left behind and out of touch.

“Our volunteers are opening up new opportunities to people over 65 and the training is friendly and easy to understand.”

Andrea Miller, Shropshire Council digital skills programme lead, said:-

“Ordering medications quickly and easily, feeling safe online, getting food shopping delivered to your door, and enjoying video calls with friends and family are just some of the skills digital volunteers can help people to learn.

“People can learn on their own tablet, mobile phone or laptop, and we have free tablets and connectivity for participants in greatest need.”

If you live in or around Shrewsbury and are aged 65 and over, you can visit or call the numbers below to register for support.

• Shrewsbury central Library: 01743 255308
• Harlescott Library: 01743 250810
• Bayston Hill Library: 01743 872412
• Pontesbury Library: 01743 250610