Digital Inclusion Volunteer vacancy in Greater London and Cambridgeshire ()

As a Digital Inclusion Volunteer, you will typically visit a deafblind member in their own home or at another mutually convenient location, to enable them to engage with digital technology. You will use ‘off the shelf’ devices such as iPads, tablets or PCs to demonstrate to and train those with combined sight and hearing loss. You will show how such devices can be adapted to meet the needs of the individual and will demonstrate safe and effective use of the technology, thus reducing our members’ isolation and improving their quality of life.

The digital inclusion role is time-limited and is typically up to 8 individual sessions, to meet the needs of each member(s) confidence in accessing and using technology to benefit their own quality of life.


What’s involved?

As a DI Volunteer you would typically support with the following activities:

• To establish and build a befriending relationship.
• To demonstrate how mainstream devices such as smartphones, tablets and PC’s can be adapted to meet the accessibility needs of a deafblind person(s) whilst supporting the individual to perform a range of digital activities across communication, leisure and access to information fields.
• To introduce the deafblind person(s) to a defined set of specialist applications and websites enabling a more independent lifestyle.
• To encourage a deafblind person(s) to express their interests and desires for using technology.
• To help a deafblind person(s) identify suitable digital activities which can enable them to achieve greater independence and social inclusion. e.g. Using communication tools such as skype, email or Facebook to communicate with their grandchildren.
• To provide advice, information and guidance on new and suitable technologies and explain how these may be of benefit to the individual.
• To teach and train the deafblind person(s) to use the devices in an appropriate way that can meet their aspirations.
• To encourage the deafblind person(s) to perform their chosen digital activities independently and with confidence.
• To teach and train the deafblind person(s) to use potentially complex processes in an understandable, fun and accessible way.
• To provide regular updates of your volunteering activities with your named Deafblind UK contact.

What times do I need to commit to?

This role requires regular commitment as agreed with the member. Typically, this can be on a weekly basis.

This role would suit someone who …
• Has a proven interest in technology, or the interest and motivation to learn more about “off the shelf” technology such as smartphones. tablets, e-readers, PC’s.
• Has the interest to learn how such devices can be adapted to meet the accessible needs of people experiencing sensory loss.
• Has the ability to communicate potentially complex processes in an easy to understand way with a confident manner (training will be provided).
• Is willing to empathise with individuals who have differing levels of understanding and confidence in accessing technology.
• Has the ability to adapt quickly to changing situations and is willing to encourage individuals to try out new technologies.
• Is approachable and has a patient nature to support people with varying communication needs and experiences of technology.
• Is able to confidently relay information in one on one situations.
• Is willing to learn communication and guiding techniques to meet the needs of the deafblind person(s) (training will be provided).
• Experiences sensory loss themselves.
• Is willing to adhere to the requirements of Deafblind UK’s volunteer policies and procedures including the Code of Conduct as outlined in the Volunteer Handbook.

What are the benefits to you?
• Be part of a friendly and dedicated team.
• Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you will be making a difference to real people’s lives.
• Learn new communications skills.
• Learn about accessible technology and how this can contribute to enhanced life skills.
• Gain work experience such as adaptive technology, people skills and office administration to enhance your CV and make you more attractive to prospective employers.
• Establish positive employability skills to help you in your career path.

How do we support you?

We ensure all volunteers who join our team are well equipped to undertake any tasks that the role requires, and we will provide training and supervision throughout your journey with us. Any specific training will be outlined within your onboarding and induction stages and then discussed at your reviews with your named lead contact.

For more information and an informal chat, contact our recruitment team on 01733 316587 or email [email protected]