New service aimed at addressing the digital divide within our communities, supporting people to access devices, internet, skills training and confidence building.
Whilst the digital need should be primary, the service will provide support for a range of issues including physical and mental wellbeing, work, debt, caring responsibilities, social isolation and loneliness. For example, a participant might want to join a Zoom craft group because they are feeling isolated due to lockdown but are unsure of where to start and lack the confidence to set up their new tablet. This person might also have caring responsibilities and struggle with anxiety. Another participant might have lost their job and be struggling with debt; they want to gain digital skills and confidence to increase their opportunities in the workplace, but need support with motivation andhelp in accessing the most appropriate training to meet their needs.
Participants will be supported 1-1 by their digital health and wellbeing coach in a blended approach, including telephone and video consultations, offering 5 sessions over a 16 week period. Support might be offered directly by the coach, but participants will also be signposted or referred onto other agencies or sources of community support where appropriate.
Participants should be ready to engage for positive change, but may be feeling overwhelmed, or lacking in confidence or motivation. Their coach will work alongside them with understanding and empathy, focusing on what matters to the individual.
Referrals can be made by professionals, but self-referrals are also welcome. Referrals should be made using this referral form and emailed to jan.rooney@pluss.org.uk (password protected).
We will aim to make initial contact within a week, but at busier times this may take longer.
Jan Rooney
Digital Health and Wellbeing Coach
Pluss
2nd Floor, Stephenson House, 47 – 49 Calenick Street, Truro, Cornwall TR1 2SF
Mobile: 07767 118281
Email: jan.rooney@pluss.org.uk
