Can you help silver surfers get online?

If you know your way around a computer, could you spare some time to help older people get online this April?

Digital Unite is asking local people and organisations to get involved in Spring Online with Silver Surfers Day, one of the biggest campaigns each year to give older people and less confident users a taste of computers and the internet.

It’s been going for 11 years and during that time, has helped more than 150,000 people get more out of life online. This year’s campaign takes place from April 23 to 27.

Seven million older people in the UK have never used the internet. They’re missing out on a huge range of benefits – from saving money to keeping in touch with friends and family. In a survey for Digital Unite, 72 per cent said being online reduced their feeling of isolation, so that’s a vital reason to help them get connected.

Last year, more than 2,500 Spring Online events were held in towns and cities all around the UK. People opened their doors at all sorts of places – from living rooms to UK online centres, classrooms, cafes, libraries and even pubs – to hold fun events from Wii parties to online gardening sessions.

Everyone who registers their Spring Online event before April 2 will receive a free event pack which includes a prize draw for £200 High Street gift vouchers. Registration and more details are at www.springonline.org

Emma Solomon of Digital Unite says: “Access to computers and the internet can enhance people’s health and wellbeing – and open up whole new worlds. If you know your way round a computer why not volunteer to show someone else how to do it?

“Often, all people need is someone to get them started, show them the basics and make it fun. Holding a Spring Online event can really help.”

For more information about Spring Online and to register your event visit or call 0800 228 9272.

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