Help people get online, build confidence and make a difference in your community.
Do you enjoy helping people? Are you comfortable using a smartphone, tablet or computer? You could make a brilliant Digital Champion!
At Starting Point, our volunteer Digital Champions help people across Stockport develop the skills and confidence to use technology in everyday life. You don’t need to be a technology expert. If you’ve ever helped a friend or family member use their phone, send an email or find something online, you’ve already got useful skills.
We’ll provide the training, support and opportunities to get you started.
What do Digital Champions do?
Digital Champions provide friendly, patient support to people who need a little help getting online.
You might help someone to:
- Use their smartphone, tablet or computer.
- Send emails, search the internet or complete online forms.
- Access NHS services and other useful apps.
- Look for jobs or update their CV.
- Stay in touch with friends and family.
- Build confidence and stay safe online.
It’s not about knowing every answer. It’s about helping someone learn, giving them confidence and working things out together. Our volunteers support people in libraries, community centres, housing schemes and other welcoming spaces across Stockport.
Who can volunteer?
Almost anyone! Our Digital Champions come from all walks of life. Some are retired, some work, some are studying and others are looking to develop skills or meet new people.
You might be interested in volunteering because you want to:
- Give something back to your community.
- Meet new people and make friends.
- Gain experience and develop your skills.
- Build confidence or prepare for employment.
- Share your everyday digital knowledge.
- Do something rewarding with your spare time.
We welcome volunteers from different backgrounds, ages and communities, including people with disabilities and people who speak English as an additional language. You will need to feel comfortable using everyday technology, talking to new people and supporting learners independently.
How much time do I need to give?
Volunteering is flexible.
Most Digital Champions support a regular session, usually for around one or two hours You will have an agreed day and location, but many sessions operate a rota, so you won’t necessarily need to volunteer every week. We will work with you to find an opportunity that suits your availability, interests and experience.
Training and support
You won’t be expected to start volunteering without preparation. We provide free introductory training to help you feel confident supporting others, along with opportunities to develop your knowledge.
As a Starting Point Digital Champion, you’ll have access to:
- Initial training – a friendly introduction to the role and supporting learners.
- Online learning – access to our LearnWorlds training resources, including safeguarding, communication and digital skills.
- Ongoing support – guidance from Starting Point staff and other volunteers.
- Lunch & Learn and Tea & Tech – regular opportunities to explore new topics and share experiences.
- A volunteer community – opportunities to meet other Digital Champions, share ideas and celebrate your contribution.
We want every volunteer to feel listened to, supported, respected and cared for.
The difference you can make
For someone who struggles with technology, a little support can make a big difference. Helping someone send their first email, access an important service or feel confident using their phone can open up new opportunities and make everyday life easier.
Our Digital Champions are an important part of making Stockport a more digitally inclusive place.
See our Digital Champions in action
Watch our National Lottery Community Fund project impact video to hear more about the difference our volunteers make in local communities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4a_k1WyagQU&t=2s
Ready to become a Digital Champion?
We’d love to hear from you! The first step is to join one of our free introductory training sessions, where you can learn more about volunteering and meet other people interested in becoming Digital Champions.
Book your Digital Champion training
If you’d prefer to speak to someone first, get in touch:
Email: hello@startpoint.org.uk