More and more essential services are now accessed online but here in Dorset we have around 150,000 people who lack essential digital skills, struggling to do even the simplest tasks online.
If you work with our residents then we need your help to help them.
That’s where our Embedded Digital Champion training programme comes in.
If you have regular contact with customers our training can help you to assist our most vulnerable (but valuable) ones to make the most of getting online.
Already, we have trained 38 embedded digital champions and have now released dates for our spring programmes, starting from 1 March right through to 28 June.
There are 10 training programmes being held this spring and you can join one of them. Each programme consists of three, two-hour sessions held over three weeks.
You will learn skills to help others in the training, which is relaxed and fun, and you’ll also be improving your own digital skills at the same time.
But just don’t take our word for it, watch Wimborne Library manager James Prince describe his positive experience of training to be an embedded digital champion: Become an embedded digital champion – you’ll make a real difference. – YouTube
Our embedded digital training enables you to better support residents at the point when digital help is needed in the area where you work.
For example, a library assistant might help people reserve books online or a GP receptionist can help patients arrange prescriptions via their smartphones, tablets or PCs.
To be an embedded digital champion, you don’t have to be a digital expert; you just need to be enthusiastic about the benefits of using digital tools and share that passion with others. In fact, some of the best champions are those who understand what it is like to feel unsure and who don’t have all the answers to start with.
As part of the training, we will make sure you are able to help with any questions you might be asked. You will feel part of a supportive digital community where you can share knowledge and information even at the most basic level. 
If you work in a front-line role and would like to help people build their digital skills, email edc@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk for more information and to book yourself on to one of our programmes.
I have worked in communications for 25 years, first as a journalist and then in public and private sector public relations. From Southampton originally, I have lived in beautiful Dorset for the last two decades. My passion for Dorset has also turned into a passion for landscape photography. My other great loves are my family and Southampton Football Club.