The Connecting Scotland Helpline provides digital support to anyone in Scotland. It is free to call and is open from Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm.
Anyone can call this freephone number and receive support and advice on topics including:
- Using devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops or desktop computers
- Connecting to the internet
- Navigating the web and social media
- Completing everyday tasks online
- Connecting with the community, family and friends
- Managing finances, paying bills and saving money online
- Reducing costs (energy, data plans, shopping, etc.)
- Finding opportunities for education and employment
- Feeling less isolated and having someone to talk to
The helpline is run by charity People Know How, in partnership with the Scottish Government and the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO). It forms part of the charity’s Reconnect service, which aims to improve digital inclusion across Scotland.
Part of the wider Connecting Scotland scheme set up during the pandemic, the helpline was set up to support those who received devices as part of that programme. It has since been expanded to help anyone in Scotland who needs digital support, regardless of whether they interacted with the original scheme.
“Thank goodness for Connecting Scotland…We felt we were living in the 19th century; now we’ve joined the 21st century, and we’re enjoying every moment of it!” – Greta & Heidi, helpline callers
The charity has supported thousands of people through the helpline.
Sisters Greta and Heidi received iPads that made their life in a rural part of Scotland much easier, with continual support from the helpline that allowed them do things like order food and essentials to their home instead of making the 60-mile round trip to the nearest shop.
David was able to solve connectivity issues after recently moving to Scotland, allowing him to apply for local college courses and build his skills as he supports his family.
Mary still calls in regularly for advice after the team supported her to regain access to her iPad, which is vital in her life to access medicine and food and to communicate with friends and family.
Rachel eased her worries online and improved her knowledge of online safety, learning about spotting spam emails and identifying trustworthy websites.
The helpline is available to anyone who needs it, whether you’re an individual in need of advice, or a support worker or community organisation looking for a helpful resource to refer those you support to.
Call the helpline today for free digital support and advice: 0800 0 590 690
Find out more at: https://peopleknowhow.org/reconnect/#connecting-scotland