Help to get online and use digital equipment

Want to know more about how to use digital technology such as the internet, computers, tablet devices, mobile phones and find out what this technology could do for you? You’ve come to right place! There’s lots of support available in Newcastle to help you to get online, learn new skills, access technology and try new things.

Types of digital equipment

With all the options to choose from, it’s easily to feel overwhelmed when thinking about buying digital equipment. The first step is to think about what type of device you want and what you might use it for.

The main types of digital devices are:

computers – can be a PC that sits on your desk or a laptop that is portable. You can use computers to create documents, presentations, videos, send emails, play games, browse the Internet or use specialist computer software for many other tasks..
smartphones: While basic mobile phones can mostly be used to make calls or text other phones, Smartphones allow you to browse the internet, use social media, send emails, take photos and much more. They usually have a touchscreen so only have buttons to switch it on and off. You can also download ‘apps’ (short for applications), which you can use to play games, get directions, access news, weather, mobile versions of computer software and more.
tablets (e.g. iPad) are small portable devices that let you do many of the same things a computer can do, but are most often used to browse the Internet, read email, and watch videos. They are roughly the size of a book and have a touchscreen, so only have buttons for switching on and off.
e-book readers (e.g. Kindle) are portable devices used for reading books electronically. They are larger than a mobile phone but smaller than a tablet, and can store a large number of electronic books. They also allow you to read in large print
games consoles not only play videogames but they can be used to access online TV channels, Social Media, video streaming services and the internet
webcams short for ‘web cameras’ are a digital camera that you can connect to your computer. It can send live video recording from your computer to another location by means of the internet and they sometimes have a built in microphone so your video recording also has sound. Webcams are commonly built into laptops, tablets and mobile/smartphones.
smart watches are a wearable device that looks like a wristwatch. They often sync to your smartphone and you can answer phone calls, read email and text messages, get weather reports, listen to music, dictate email and text messages, ask a digital assistant a question.
smart speakers and smart screens: Devices such as Amazon Alexa, Google Nest and others allow you to use your voice and/or a touchscreen to interact with a digital assistant programme. You can set reminders and calendar appointments, search for information online, play music and videos, and many similar features to a smartphone. These devices also link to other smart devices that can be used to control things in your home, you can change your heating temperature, turn lights on or off, view cameras that are connected to your device,
smart doorbells are an internet-connected doorbell that lets you know someone is at the door through an alert on a device, it may also have a camera and microphone that allows you to view and speak to somebody from your device.

The Internet of things (IoT)

Digital assistants are built into many ‘smart’ digital devices. It is is a software program that listens to what you say, understands your question or command, works with other online services, apps or websites, and then gives you a spoken answer through a device. To use a digital assistant using your voice, a wake up word might be used such as “Hey Siri”, “Hey Google”, “Hi Alexa”. Digital assistants learn to understand your voice and dialect.

Some digital assistants also work with video and image recognition. Google Lens can be used on smartphones or other devices with cameras to translate text by camera or search the internet for an item you have taken a photo of.

Using the Internet

Using the internet can open up a whole new range of opportunities to you, allow you to connect with family and friends, save money and time and learn new things. For example you could order your food shopping online, watch TV, listening to music and talk to your friends.

I’m new to computers where do I start?

There are many courses available in the city for all levels ranging from drop in sessions for beginners , to weekly classes for more advanced computer skills.

For more details on courses and drop in sessions read more on InformationNOW on:

Computer Classes and IT Support
Lifelong Learning
Digital Unite‘s guide on using the Internet takes you through the basics including getting connected, searching and browsing and much more.

Digital Unite have some very helpful online guides, introducing you to various computer basics including emailing, smartphones and tablets, creating documents, Internet security and social networking.

Ability Net support disabled people to access and use technology to meet their needs.

I don’t have a computer or the internet at home what can I do?

Newcastle Librariesacross Newcastle have free access to computers and the internet. There are many other organisations that offer computer access and computer skills sessions too.

Get Online Newcastle run classes to help you get started on a computer or the internet. You don’t have to have your own device.

Online Centres Network offers access to computers and classes. They provide people with the skills and confidence they need to access digital technology. Search for the nearest centre to you on their website.

Newcastle Carers has computers available for carers to use at their centre in Byker. You can book a computer by contacting them.

Pottery Bank Community Centre has an IT Suite where you can use their computers.

Newcastle City Council has created an interactive map to search for places in Newcastle where you can get free or low cost access to computers, training and support.

Help to buy computer equipment

It can be expensive to purchase new computer equipment, however once you have bought the equipment you could save money when buying things online, or accessing cheaper energy rates. There are some organisations that can help you purchase electrical equipment and access affordable credit.

Good Things Foundation have a map of National Digital Inclusion Network members who can help you get online, loan digital devices, loan or get data for free.

Getonline@home offer new customers a low cost refurbished PC, laptop or tablet, when you sign up to a new broadband and phone deal from their providers. Prices start at £49 for people on low income benefits or £119 for everyone else. The Laptop or PC is despatched 90 days after your new Supplier has confirmed that your broadband service is active. Simplifydigital can help you find the best value broadband service that’s right for you. This services is ran by Microsoft, Currys, Simplifydigital and Computer Recyclers UK to help people to get online.

Happus.eu provide access to affordable equipment helping everybody buy a PC, laptop or tablet so they can get online and be part of our ever changing world.

SmarterBuys may support you to buy products if you live in social or Council housing

Affordable credit may be an option to you if you need to make a big purchase for a laptop or mobile device.

Affordable electrical items are available. You may be able to purchase a second hand or refurbished device online. Some mobile phone providers offer refurbished handsets at a lower price. Online sellers such as Ebay, Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree may offer cheaper options too. However be careful when purchasing second hand items from individuals online.

Turn2us is a charity where you find charitable funds and grants to apply for, when you need money for essential things in life. For example, furniture, household items, white goods, electrical items, studying, bringing up children, experiencing life changing circumstances and more. They have a telephone helpline, benefits calculator and online information.

Other useful information

Staying safe online

Making your mobile phone easier to use

Digital Candle provide free digital advice for charities.

Digital Pathfinders helps SMEs, charities and social enterprises across Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland become more successful and resilient by adopting digital technology.

Digital Voice works with people and communities to access the internet and online information

Digital Unite have a range of free guides to help you use digital technology and get online. They also have a free course on staying safe online

Tesco Little Helps scheme supports a range of people to get devices and data including: families and young people, mental health and wellbeing concerns, survivors of domestic abuse and those who are face with homelessness. You need to referred through a charity or service.

Good Things Foundations have digital inclusion activity topic cards. Each card explains the benefits of an activity, the social and digital skills it supports, and how you might run an activity with a group or person.

Last updated: July 15, 2024