Crossing the digital divide: Christine's story

Frustrated with digital

Before getting digital support, life was frustrating for Christine. She tried to be online and had her own computer, so she could keep in touch with a loved one in Australia. But she lacked other digital skills. When something new came up, she was worried she'd get something wrong or be scammed. 

Christine wasn't confident with online banking and would end up cancelling orders when online shopping.

She said:

"I went around in circles. If I wanted to buy something but then changed my mind I could never figure out how to get away from that page and it used to worry me."

A turning point

Christine helped to set up a community group in Oldham that empowers residents with confidence and skills.

She came across local organisation Starting Point, which is part of the National Digital Inclusion Network, as they delivered sessions to the group around online family trees.

The charity, based in Stockport, introduced her to Learn My Way. With the help of the free learning platform and their digital skills sessions, over time Christine's confidence grew.

Confidence with online banking and shopping

No longer feeling scared about some tasks, Christine's now more confident with online banking and shopping. She can transfer money, check balances and pay credit card bills and is now saving money online too.

She added:

"I did some online shopping for Black Friday and I got a great deal with car rescue cover as we wanted to go on a trip to London in our 25 year old car! I order so much off Amazon now that I know exactly how it works."

Aware of scams and artificial intelligence

Although Christine is still wary about other websites, she's much more aware of scams and how to spot them. She's also been learning how to use AI in her daily life.

She continued:

"...I was recently invited to use a website and I know it wasn't a scam, but I was still wary of why it wanted my information, so it's definitely always something that I am thinking about...We've learnt how to spot fakes and what some of the tell tale signs are."

With technology constantly evolving, Christine knows she can reach out to Starting Point for further digital support.