- Written by Joe Thewlis
- BBC News, Norfolk political reporter
Tessa, 72, says technology has made her feel less isolated.
A deaf woman from west Norfolk says a project tackling digital isolation has changed her life.
Tessa, 72, was writing notes on a whiteboard to communicate with her husband.
But after he was given a smartphone from the Tech Skills for Life project, he was able to use an app to transcribe what people were saying.
Tessa, who lives in King’s Lynn, said: “These are my new ears and they are absolutely amazing.”
The Tech Skills for Life scheme was established by Norfolk County Council in July last year.
We are working with King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council, the NHS and a range of voluntary groups to ensure everyone can use technology and access online services.
“I no longer feel isolated,” Tessa said. “My life is much better. It’s worth living.”
Gail Harvey establishes Tech Skills for Life project in west Norfolk
Gail Harvey, the county council’s digital inclusion manager, came up with the idea to create the Tech Skills for Life partnership.
She said: “We want to help people use technology safely and reliably.
“As well as health and social care, there is a huge problem of social isolation and loneliness.
“It’s great that people can talk to friends and family and go online and find groups.”
digital exclusion
West Norfolk was chosen as the location for the pilot project as it has been noted as an area with high levels of digital exclusion.
This means people don’t have the technology to go online, can’t afford to access the internet, or don’t know how to use the internet.
Staff will provide free laptops, tablets and data to help people who have difficulty connecting to the internet.
More than 2,800 people have been helped so far.
The partnership also offers free advice sessions on using technology and avoiding online fraud.
Janie Brister is the plan’s community technology coach
Janie Brister, community technology coach for the scheme, said: “Every promise is different.
“I’ve supported people with phones, tablets, computers, TVs, etc. It’s a huge range of different devices.
“I think everyone is a bit isolated and we’re a bit isolated, especially around West Norfolk.
“So it’s really good to see people being able to communicate.”