Digital skills training
Improve your digital skills, keep connected, and stay safe online with our free digital skills training for deaf people.
Our digital skills training
Welcome to Deaf Action’s Digital Skills service. We’re here to offer tailored support and personalised programmes to help you improve your digital skills, keep you connected, and stay safe online.
Our service is designed to meet the needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing people, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity every step of the way. Whether you’re just getting started and looking to get to grips with the basics, want to develop more advanced digital skills, or are looking for something specific for work or education, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Who is it for?
Our Digital Skills service is open to all deaf and hard-of-hearing people living in Scotland’s Central Belt area between Glasgow and Edinburgh. It doesn’t matter if you use BSL or English, our friendly tutors can train you in your preferred language.
Whether you’re a young adult entering the world of work or further education, someone looking to upskill for work, or an older adult wanting to stay connected with friends and loved ones online, our training can be tailored to what you need at any stage of your life.
What we can help with
- Learning the basics, using a computer, laptop, tablet, phone or other device
- Make sure your phone is fully accessible and matches your needs
- Introduction to word processing, spreadsheets & slideshows
- Email essentials – sending, receiving and safety
- Social media – features, functions and safety
- Internet safety, and keeping yourself safe online
- Online retail & banking
- Learn to control your hearing aids through an app if they have this function
- Accessing government and emergency services independently
- Video calling, including FaceTime, WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype
- Accessing online interpreting and text-relay services
- How to use different operating systems, such as Apple, Android or Windows
- Digital skills for work, including Microsoft Office, Teams and Outlook
- Introduction to AI and workplace apps such as Trello, Canva, Notion, ChatGPT, and Miro
What are digital skills?
Digital skills are the ability to use digital technology and devices for various purposes such as communication, problem-solving, and productivity. However, what this means for one person can be completely different from another.
For some, it could be learning to use a smartphone to keep in touch with family and friends, pay bills or simply staying safe online. For others, it could mean learning to send emails, use Microsoft Office, and gain new skills for work.
As digital skills continue to be part of our everyday lives, learning these skills is more vital than ever.
Why are digital skills important?
Digital skills can help people to confidently engage with the online world, whether it’s browsing the internet, connecting with others through social media, or accessing services online.
In today’s digital age, having these skills is essential.
For deaf and hard-of-hearing people, digital skills can be particularly important. They provide more options for communication, access to information, and opportunities for social inclusion. From using video calls and messaging apps to accessing online resources and support services, digital skills empower people to overcome communication barriers and fully participate in society.
Contact us
If you or someone you know would benefit from this service, you can contact us on the details below. Alternatively, you can fill out the contact form and we’ll be in touch.
Email: digital@deafaction.org
Phone: 07551 876 051 (text only)
Digital drop-in sessions
Our digital drop-in sessions are perfect for people that need on-the-spot support and advice. No booking required, simply turn up and our Digital Skills Advisor will be on hand to support you.
If you are looking for support outside of these times, or are unable to attend any of the drop-in sessions, please contact us to arrange an appointment.
Edinburgh
Every Thursday
Time: 12pm – 3pm
Location: Deaf Action, 49 Albany Street