Going back to basics of the digital world – ABC event could open a new world online

“Absolute Beginners” of the digital world are being invited to attend drop-in digital switch-over events in Orkney to understand the implications of the switchover for them and to have the opportunity to learn the very basics and open a whole new world online.

Chrissie Matthews, of The Learning Link, Steven Gough from the Orkney Library and Archive and BT Digital Roadshow presenter, Naveed Hussain will be working together during the BT Roadshow and will be inviting those with no digital skills to sign up for the Absolute Beginners Course (ABC).

Naveed will be discussing the digital switchover, giving presentations, and answering questions relating to BT’s Digital Voice and the switchover.

Steven and Chrissie will be providing information for folk who have no knowledge of the internet, smart gadgets or digital devices of any kind.

Chrissie, Senior Adult Learning Support, said: “We are keen to see people who want the opportunity to learn these essential skills in a changing digital world. We are looking for absolute beginners, not those who want to expand their current skills.

“We are receiving more and more enquiries at The Learning Link and at the Library in Kirkwall from locals, mainly senior citizens, who are worried that they have no digital skills and what will happen after the digital changeover.

“I have been working with three gentlemen in their late 70’s in this very situation, and after several weeks they are now using digital devices, browsing safely, sending emails to family and friends, and are now pretty clued up and vigilant about phishing and scams.”

Folk are invited along to Kirkwall Library on July 23 2024 from 14:30 to 18:00 and 24 July 2024 from 10:00 to 14:00 to discuss the digital switchover but also for those with no online experience to register an interest in attending an Absolute Beginners Course in Digital Skills to be run by The Learning Link at a later date.

You can also contact The Learning Link to register your interest in a beginner’s course in digital skills on 01856 879200 or email thelearninglinkenquiries@orkney.gov.uk