Free Digital Skills Training for disabled adults and older people
- Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
- Type: News Item
- Published: 3rd November 2025
AbilityNet are this month's Digital Citizen Panel Spotlight
Do you need help with using your smartphone, tablet or computer? Perhaps you know someone struggling with their digital device? AbilityNet charity offers free in-person digital skills sessions in areas across Aberdeen, Dundee and Perth, Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Scottish Central Belt areas, to older and disabled people, via its partnership with BT Group.
AbilityNet’s trainers will run sessions for you on topics including Staying safer online, how to manage your health online, how to bank and shop online, using social media, making video calls, and much more. They can also build something bespoke for your group or for an individual.
“I would like to thank AbilityNet for these fantastic seminars. I have learned so much over the past 2 weeks, received help with my phone and tablet, and given reassurance about AI (of which I was fearful).” – Learner in Scotland
Register for free sessions via the AbilityNet website.
AbilityNet also provides regular free online webinars to help share advice and guidance on basic digital skills, apps and tools. You can ask for free IT support at home and online via its nationwide network of 450+ AbilityNet Tech Volunteers. To access the free service, call the helpline on 0300 180 0028 during UK office hours, email to enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk or visit: www.abilitynet.org.uk/at-home
Rob McLean – DCP member/Digital Inclusion Programme Manager
“I’m in my third year with AbilityNet, where I have the privilege of leading our Digital Inclusion Programme in partnership with BT Group.
Our mission is simple but powerful: to reduce digital exclusion and help older people and disabled adults build confidence online through free training delivered by an incredible network of trainers across the UK.
I work closely with partners and stakeholders from all sectors and regions to make sure our programmes are inclusive, meaningful, and aligned with national priorities.
My role covers everything from planning and governance to engagement and performance – but at the heart of it all is collaboration and a commitment to continuous improvement, so we can respond to real community needs.
Over the past two years, our team has supported more than 15,000 people, and that’s something I’m truly proud of.
I’m based in Fife, Scotland, and when I’m not working on digital inclusion, you’ll often find me volunteering with Blood Bikes Scotland – out and about on my motorbike helping to support our amazing NHS.”
If you’d like to get in touch with Rob contact: rob.mclean@abilitynet.org.uk
End of page.
You may also like:
Parties set out positions on human rights, social care and more at our hustings ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election.
Continue readingThe Digital Citizen Panel's monthly Conversation Cafe - Bring a Buddy has launched an 'On the Road' offer and is looking for hosts
Continue readingThese stories illustrate how system-minded, compassionate leadership is influencing transformation across health and social care in Scotland
Continue readingAfter the Scottish Government scrapped the initial review, the most recent proposal suggests a smaller number of broader outcomes.
Continue readingCare Roadshow Scotland to showcase leading innovation in care and latest sector updates at upcoming show.
Continue readingThis short report provides an overview of the role of housing in health and social care integration.
Continue readingWorking together to support families through a new whole household approach
Continue readingA coalition of organisations urges immediate support as rising costs threaten people most at risk across Scotland.
Continue readingYoung people’s feedback will help NHS 24 better understand needs and improve support services.
Continue readingALLIANCE input and lived experience evidence help shape stronger, person-centred and trauma-informed maternity care
Continue reading#TryAToolTuesday raises awareness of free and trusted apps and resources that help people improve and manage their health and wellbeing.
Continue readingEuropean Patients Forum announces 2026 training for young patient advocates to build skills and shape healthcare.
Continue readingTake part in this survey if you have a long term condition, are Deaf, Deafblind or have a Visual Impairment
Continue readingLearn more about the Parkrun BSL glossary and YouTube video series
Continue readingFind Lipreading classes local to you
Continue readingPaid internship opportunity for school leavers with Visual Impairment
Continue readingAn examination of the role of social workers in alleviating stigma experienced by members of the Deaf community in Ireland and the UK
Continue readingThis study is for young people aged 12–16 years living in Scotland, who are Blind or have Severe Sight Impairment
Continue readingSupporting stronger information rights, while warning delivery must work for an already stretched sector
Continue readingA new resource by Adaptation Scotland to help social care professionals integrate climate adaptation into care planning and delivery.
Continue readingShow Up is a multi-year campaign which will focus on the areas where change is most needed.
Continue readingRead more about the ALLIANCE response to the report on the impact of COVID-19 on the health and social care sector in Scotland.
Continue readingRead more about the ALLIANCE Annual Conference which took place on 23 March 2026.
Continue readingOnline toolkit makes it easier for people to communicate with public services.
Continue readingTake part in a month of physical activity to support MISS's work.
Continue reading