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Support with Accessing Digital

digital inclusivity image depicting a person on a screen with various digital icons surrounding

As part of your appointment with us we will ask you questions about how you currently use digital technology. 

Our staff are trained to support you or signpost you to where you can receive support with digital health technology.   

Many things we use daily rely on the use of digital technology. Digital health tools can be difficult for people to access and use.   

Being digitally excluded can mean:  

  • You do not have regular access to a device such as a smart phone or computer. 
  • You cannot afford to access data or broadband for your device. 
  • You find accessing digital technology difficult due to your needs. 
  • You do not know how to access digital technology. 

Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust is committed to making sure we are digitally inclusive, and that all patients and service users have the same opportunities to access digital services if they wish.   

 

What ways may Leeds Community Healthcare use digital health technology to support you?  

  • Virtual (video calling) appointments. 
  • Useful website links sent to your mobile phone by text message or email address.  
  • Survey links to your mobile phone such as our friends and family test (FFT). 
  • A website link to access your appointment letters.  
  • Links to apps such as the NHS App. 
  • Use QR codes which you scan with your device camera and a link will take you to useful further information. 
  • Apps or websites where you can chat directly with a clinician to provide you support.  
  • Signpost you to digital self-referral for support. 

We will continue to offer you non-digital ways to access healthcare if you prefer. This may include face to face and telephone appointments or printed information.   

To access digital health technologies, you will need a device capable of accessing the internet. This could be a smart phone, computer or tablet. There are many places in Leeds which can support you with this.  

 

Getting connected to the internet  

Home Broadband   Illustration of a wireless internet router with an antenna and signal waves, depicted in a simple blue outline style.

If you have broadband at home, you can connect to the internet this way. If you are on a low income you may qualify for a social tariff. You can speak with one of the support agencies below or your broadband supplier to find out more.   

Wi-Fi 

Blue Wi-Fi symbol with radiating waves on a white background

There are many places in Leeds where you can use free Wi-Fi on your own device. These are often cafés, libraries, buses and community venues.   

You can also access the Leeds City Council Welcome Spaces scheme. Welcome Spaces are free to use for anyone. Some venues will offer hot drinks, activities, and other services such as free Wi-Fi.   

Find out more here: Welcome Spaces  

SIM cards 

A sim card icon on a white background

You may have a data package with your phone SIM card which allows you to access the internet. You may be able to get a free sim card through the National Databank. You can visit on of the digital inclusion community support hubs for more information. Please find  your nearest hub here : Leeds Community Digital Support Directory – 100% Digital Leeds  

02 is offering free mobile data to those most in need. You can visit the Leeds 02 stores at Trinity, White Rose and Crossgates for support.   

 

Organisations who can support you   

100% Digital Leeds 

Image displaying the text "100% Digital Leads" in bold, modern typography against a clean, white background.

100% Digital work with partners across Leeds in different settings. They want everyone in Leeds to use digital tools, technology and services in the right way for them. 100% Digital have a community directory that will tell you where your nearest support is.  

Visit their website for further information https://digitalinclusionleeds.com/  

Leeds Libraries 

Logo of Leeds Libraries for Health, featuring a stylized book and health-related imagery in a vibrant color scheme.

Your local library can support with accessing devices and SIM cards. They will support you with leaning to use a tablet, smartphone or computer.  

Please call library enquiries on 0113 378 5005. You can find out more here : Leeds Libraries | Leeds Library  

Carers Leeds  

If you are a carer, you can access supportCarers lLeeds logo with graphic font and an illustration of three adults with a letter C through Carers Leeds by speaking with them over the telephone, face to face or by accessing their website. Please call 0113 380 4300 or email advice@carersleeds.org.uk. Their website is Carers Leeds – Supporting unpaid carers  

Ability Net  

ability net logo in graphic font with a thin curvy line going through it

Support at home for those over 65 years old or anyone with a disability. You can speak to a digital volunteer and receive support. Visit www.abilitynet.org.uk or call the helpline on 0800 048 7642 (Freephone). 

Learn My Way  

Learn my way logo written in graphic font in front of three coloured rectangles

Learn My Way is a free online platform that helps people gain basic digital skills and build confidence in using the internet.  

 

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