Support with Accessing Digital

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

Many things we use daily rely on digital technology. This can be difficult to access and use.  Our staff are trained to support you or tell you to where you can get support with digital technology.

We are committed to making sure we are digitally inclusive, and that everyone has the same opportunities to access digital services if they wish  

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 internet access for your device.
• You find accessing digital technology difficult.
• You do not know how to access digital technology.

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

• Virtual appointments (video calling).
• Useful website links sent to your mobile phone by text message or email.
• Survey links sent 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.
• QR codes which you scan with your device camera and a link will take you to useful information.
• Apps or websites where you can chat directly with a clinician for support.
• Signpost you to digital self-referral information on a website.

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 technologies, you will need a device able to 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  

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 

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.   

SIM cards 

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. Find your nearest community support hub here. 

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 

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 the 100% Digital Leeds website for further information about support available near you.

Leeds Libraries 

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 about support available on the Leeds Libraries website. 

Carers Leeds  

If you are a carer, you can access support 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 them on advice@carersleeds.org.uk.

You can also find out what support Carers Leeds can offer on their website. 

Ability Net  

Support at home for those over 65 years old or anyone with a disability. You can speak to a digital volunteer and receive support. Find out more about what Ability Net can offer on their website or call them on 0800 048 7642 (Freephone). 

Learn My Way  

Learn My Way is a free online platform that helps people gain basic digital skills and build confidence in using the internet.  Find out more about what you could learn for free on the Learn My Way website.