Andy champions digital skills at local Online Centre in Worthing
Andy Gilbert is a Digital Champion from Lloyds Banking Group who has had the opportunity to use his digital know-how to support his local community, thanks to a partnership between Good Things Foundation and Lloyds Banking Group.
The partnership has seen the charity and the bank combining knowledge to develop an in-house course for Lloyds staff to develop their skills as Digital Champions and has then provided them with opportunities to volunteer in local Online Centres up and down the country.
Resource and planning manager Andy found a volunteering opportunity at the IT Junction in Worthing and got in touch with the team there to see if he could be of assistance.
“I chose Worthing IT Junction because I wanted to use my skills to help the local community. I’ve lived in Worthing practically all my life, so I really care about the area.
“I’ve spent a lot of time with learners but one of the most important things has been inspiring them and giving them the confidence to go online and discover the huge amount of information that’s out there.
“It’s so rewarding when someone gives you a pat on the shoulder and says thank you. They’re genuinely happy that you’ve helped them. I’d absolutely recommend that other colleagues who are interested, give it a go and get stuck in. At the end of the day, the more you put in the more you get out.”
Leigh-Anna Barber from Adur and Worthing District Council, is the Online Centres Network lead for the IT Junction. She says: “Andy Gilbert was our first Digital Champion and has been with us for 10 months. This is an older group of learners with specific needs and the Junction required a volunteer that could offer patience, understanding and a calm manner to be able to assist the clients effectively.
“Andy has become a valuable member of the team demonstrating a consistent and calm approach with everyone. He works well with everyone he meets and is patient with repeat questions and queries ensuring his clients learn at their own pace.
“The Lloyds Digital Champions understand that when they come to work for the Junctions it’s not about teaching the masses but delivering a quality service to individual people and they excel in this. I am grateful for the support they have provided for our project and hope in time that more champions will join us.”