Wellbeing in Focus: Why Digital Skills are just part of the picture
Digital Voice’s mission is simple; we want to connect people to one another. People are always at the heart of what we do. Whether we’re enabling older people to use the latest technology for everyday use; empowering children to create films; giving a voice to digitally excluded groups or sharing stories with one of our history clubs, it’s all about people. This person-centred approach is why these projects do much more than improve digital skills, they improve mental health too.
Our digital drawing courses were visibly successful in that they produced some beautiful art work and both a live and online exhibition but there were some less visible successes which were just as worthy of celebration. Participants were a range of ages and experiences and over half reported having a physical and/or mental health condition or illness. After completing the course they reported a range of benefits from taking part including; improved confidence; making new friends; learning new skills; feeling pride in their local area; reignited passion for drawing; a sense of enjoyment.
Our History Clubs in Chopwell and Consett report similar benefits. After a very challenging couple of years, the weekly chance to share photos, stories over a cuppa has been invaluable.
Other members talk about it making them feel less lonely and part of their community.
Chopwell History Club doesn’t currently have funding but Julie Nicholson, Digital Voice’s Managing Director is determined to keep it going:
“History club is vital to its members and to us. For the members, it provides a chance to connect with peers and for us we get to preserve these brilliant stories. We’re keeping it going while we seek further funding because we’ve seen the positive effects and when wellbeing is your focus, the rewards are so much greater.”