Received a digital device for Christmas but still unsure how to use it?

Then Dorset’s volunteer digital champions are ready, willing and able to help.

Dorset Council has a team of volunteers who provide both face-to-face and over-the-phone support to anyone who needs help with technical issues.

It includes how to use and set up a new tablet, smartphone or laptop.

The volunteer digital champions run advice sessions at libraries and community centres across the county.

And between 10am and 12 noon every weekday, residents can also get help over the phone by calling the Dorset Digital Hotline on 01305 221048.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Customer Services, said: “Being digital and getting online can make people’s lives so much easier.

“We would urge anyone who needs help getting to grips with using their new smartphone, tablet or laptop to visit one of our digital advice sessions or call the Digital Hotline.

“Our volunteer digital champions are incredibly kind, helpful and patient and their advice is helping thousands of Dorset residents.”

In Dorset, 11 per cent of residents are completely offline and another 20 per cent lack all the essential digital skills needed to get online.

For some people that means although they like their new Christmas gadget, they just do not know how to make the most use of it.

Digital champion, Julie Saunders, said: “If you have received a new device for Christmas, or even if you are using an old one, the digital champions are here to help.

“We all need help using a computer or device at times so don’t be afraid to ask.

“Whether you want to learn something new, check that everything is working as it should or even because you are frustrated because the computer just says ‘no’ then call or come and see us.

“We can’t promise to solve every problem, but we’ll have a very good try.”

To find out where face-to-face digital advice sessions are held go to dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/volunteer-digital-champions.

Alternatively call the Digital Hotline on 01305 221048 (Mon to Fri, 10am to noon) for more information and to book.