Free Digital Skills Training for disabled adults and older people

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

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