Digital Support Volunteer (CareLink)
People’s horizons can become more limited later in life due to health issues, losing friends, or reduced confidence following retirement. We believe later life shouldn’t be a lonely life.
Through CareLink, volunteers build trusted relationships with older people, offering regular telephone befriending and practical support so they can remain healthy, independent, and connected in their own homes.
We are now expanding our work to bridge the Digital Divide for older people and are looking for volunteers who can help inspire confidence and build digital skills.
About the Role
As a Digital Support Volunteer, you’ll provide one‑to‑one digital support either:
At our monthly Connect Club group sessions, or
By visiting individuals in their own homes
You will help older people use technology in ways that improve their quality of life.
Connect Club – Monthly Digital Skills Workshops
Sessions usually run 10:00am – 12:00 midday, on the first Tuesday of each month:
April: Burslem
May: Longton
June: Chell
July: Hanley
August: Blurton
September: Meir
October: Burslem
November: Longton
December: Chell
What You’ll Support People With
Improving Communication
Using mobile phones
FaceTime, Zoom, email, and texting
Taking and sharing photos
Improving Entertainment
Internet TV channels
Alexa and smart speakers
VR and other gaming
Improving Safety
Staying safe online and spotting scams
Sensors and alarms for dementia, epilepsy, or sensory impairment
Door cameras and home surveillance
Improving Independence
Smart plugs and smart lighting
Alexa for reminders, shopping lists, and music
Health monitoring (blood pressure, sleep, etc.)
Help with everyday appliances such as microwaves or washing machines
Additional Volunteering Opportunities
We are also looking for volunteers with advanced digital skills to help develop our:
Website
Social media
Online accessibility and engagement
This work helps us grow our services and reach more people.
Time Commitment
2 hours per week
Minimum commitment of 6 months
Attendance at a short training session (2–3 hours, in one or two sessions)
Training can be in person or via Zoom
An enhanced DBS check is required (arranged and funded by us).
Skills & Qualities We’re Looking For
Good listening and communication skills
Empathy and interest in older people
Non‑judgemental and encouraging approach
Respect for confidentiality
Honest, reliable, flexible, and committed
Good working knowledge of technology and its everyday uses
What Volunteers Gain
Our volunteers tell us they benefit through:
Learning new skills and enhancing their CV
Increased confidence and self‑esteem
Making new friends and being part of a supportive team
A sense of wellbeing from giving back
Knowing they are making a real difference
Training, Support & Expenses
Full training before you begin (including safeguarding, boundaries, and confidentiality)
Ongoing support from a dedicated member of staff
Reasonable expenses reimbursed (including travel and activity costs)
If you enjoy helping others, have digital skills to share, and want to support older people to live more connected and independent lives, we’d love to hear from you.