Hi Digital – Bridging the digital divide
Independent Age and Vodafone Foundation are working together to support older people to get connected and explore the benefits of being online.
Why is it important to be confident with digital technology?
Nowadays many aspects of life – whether it’s planning a trip, making new friends or organising bills – involve being online. Many essential tasks, such as paying for parking and shopping, have also moved online. This can make life difficult if you’re not comfortable online, with simple tasks becoming that little bit more challenging. It might even mean you’re missing out on opportunities.
What is Hi Digital?
Hi Digital, developed by Vodafone Foundation, is a free online resource to help you improve your digital skills. Perhaps you’ve rarely been online, or perhaps you have some experience but haven’t had the confidence to explore all the possibilities of the digital world.
Hi Digital includes step-by-step courses on a variety of simple digital topics. You can complete the courses by yourself or with a family member or friend, working at your own pace and choosing the lessons best suited to you. The platform is also suitable for those looking to help an older person get more confident online.
What's in the courses?
The Hi Digital online training courses cover basic and essential digital skills, including:
- help using your smartphone – like calling, texting and using apps
- connecting with others – through emails, social media or WhatsApp
- entertainment and shopping – from online shopping to using streaming services
- hobbies and travel – like researching local activities and planning public transport.
Next steps
To get started, visit Hi Digital.
We’re interested in learning about your experiences using Hi Digital. If you would like to find out how to give us your views and experiences, please email hidigital@independentage.org. A member of our team will get in touch to let you know how you can contribute.
For more advice about using technology, visit our Tech Hub.
To find out what other advice we offer, see our Information and Advice pages or call our Helpline.
"I’ve made use of technology and I feel that has opened possibilities. Every morning I say: ‘Good Morning Alexa’ and it talks to me. It feels like I’m talking to somebody. My daughter says I talk to it like it’s a person. Technology has changed my life."
Ismael, Independent Age service user