Free digital skills training in London: How Community Fibre is bridging the digital divide
By Shashia Mitchell - 19 May 2025
Share this:
What is digital exclusion?
In today’s increasingly digital world, not everyone is able to navigate and utilise technology due to a lack of skills, access, or confidence, which leads to many experiencing digital exclusion. In London, that digital divide is wider than most might think. Whether booking a GP appointment, sending an email, or shopping online, digital exclusion can make everyday tasks overwhelming. That’s where our partnership with Westminster City Council can help. Through the Digital Ambassadors Programme, Londoners are gaining essential digital skills for free, while others are finding fulfilment by volunteering to help reduce the digital divide.
This initiative is about more than just learning to use a computer – it’s about building confidence, independence, and connection.
What is the Digital Ambassadors Programme and why does it matter?
The Digital Ambassadors Programme is a “train-the-trainer” initiative designed to tackle digital exclusion. Westminster City Council and Community Fibre train local volunteers to become qualified Digital Ambassadors. These volunteers then provide one-on-one digital support sessions to learners at local libraries and community events. The free sessions focus on developing essential digital skills, from basic smartphone use and how to set up your email to navigating government services online.
Digital exclusion affects people of all ages, but it disproportionately impacts older adults and those in underserved communities, especially as more services move online.
Case study: Tina’s story - gaining confidence through free digital skills classes in Westminster
Tina, a local Westminster resident, is a key example of the transformative impact the programme can achieve. Before attending the Digital Ambassador sessions at Church Street Library, Tina admitted to being intimidated by technology:
“In the beginning, I was afraid of anything technical,” Tina explained. “Then I saw an advert from Westminster City Council asking people looking to improve their digital skills to attend these classes. Each class was only half an hour long, so I enrolled.
Luckily, I met with two wonderful digital volunteers who encouraged me and told me that there is nothing to be afraid of in technology. They showed me how to use a smartphone and computer, how to send emails and shop online. Stuff that I previously wouldn’t have been able to do on my own.”
With encouragement from current Digital Ambassadors who provided a weekly action plan, Tina gradually began to build confidence and learn skills that once seemed out of reach:
“The volunteers encouraged us to use as many platforms as we are able to and to learn and try something new each week. We also get the opportunity to recap on whatever we’ve learnt last time, which I feel helps because of my age group.”
Eighteen months later, Tina’s progress speaks volumes:
“The improvement they’ve made in my life has been wonderful,” she shared. “Everything is digital now. If you want to shop, it’s online. When you want to book a GP appointment, it’s online. They encouraged me to do this and more. Tasks that once seemed impossible are now second nature.”
How free digital skills support empowers the wider community
Tina’s story is one of many that emphasises the value of patient, personalised digital support. For some older adults, the fear of “getting it wrong” or “breaking something” can be a huge barrier to exploring technology and our world online. The one-to-one guidance provided by Digital Ambassadors creates a safe environment to learn, ask questions, and make mistakes without judgement.
It’s not just about accessing services – it’s about rebuilding confidence, reducing isolation and allowing people to reconnect with family, hobbies, and opportunities that technology can offer.
By making digital skills accessible, our partnership with Westminster City Council is helping to create more inclusive London boroughs, where no one is left without basic digital access or digital skills.
How to become a Digital Ambassador
Do you have a few hours a week and a passion for helping others? You don’t need to be a tech expert – just patient, friendly, and willing to learn. As a Digital Ambassador, you’ll receive training and support from Westminster City Council and Community Fibre before starting your role.
Whether you’re a student, a retiree, or simply someone who enjoys making a difference, volunteering as a Digital Ambassador is a powerful way to give back. You’ll be helping someone gain independence, stay connected, and feel more confident navigating life online.
To find out more about and kickstart your Digital Ambassador adventure, register your interest here.
Where to learn free digital skills in London
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from free digital skills support, you can attend sessions run by our Digital Ambassadors at local libraries and community events across Westminster and other London boroughs.
The digital drop-in sessions are:
- Free of charge
- Open to all skill levels
- Held regularly in welcoming, accessible spaces
Whether you want to learn how to set up and send an email (without the fear of scams), shop online safely, or understand how to use your smartphone, there is help available. Visit our Community Investment page to learn more about our work in the community. Or if you cannot attend in person, visit our digital skills page to view a range of short online courses. Or learn how we can help get you online within your budget.
Article tags