Issue - meetings

Digital Isolation

Meeting: 09/10/2023 - Equalities Sub-Committee (Item 7)

DIGITAL ISOLATION

An overview of the work undertaken by Watford and Three Rivers Trust to address digital isolation in the district.

 

The presentation will be circulated with the minutes.

Minutes:

Huwaydah Malik (HM) from Watford and Three Rivers Trust (W3RT) presented the work that W3RT have been delivering to tackle the issue of Digital isolation in Watford and Three Rivers. Uptake was notably higher in Watford but work is underway to increase engagement in the district.  Projects outlined included digital champions programme and a pilot project working with Mill End GPs to show patients how to use the NHS app and book appointments online.

 

A copy of the presentation is provided with the minutes.

 

A Member asked how people can access the support.  HM described the referral process available and provided the link

 

The Head of Strategy and Partnership thanked HM for the presentation and described work that the council was embarking on with

 

HM identified that there was a low number of volunteers in Three Rivers and outlined plans to promote volunteer opportunities via the council communications platforms in order to increase the number.

 

The Partnership Manager offered the support of officers based in the GP surgery to signpost to the service if the pilot is extended.

 

The Chair asked what age range the service supported. HM advised that the service offered support for those aged 18 and above but majority of those supported at 55 plus. Some younger residents had been supported, mainly with access to devices for the purpose of applying for jobs 

 

RESOLVED:

 

That the content of the presentation be noted.