When Paul first walked into the Spark iT Digital Café in Bridgwater, the idea of applying for a job online felt impossible...
…Every employer expected digital CVs and applications, and without these skills, Paul felt his prospects were limited.
With guidance from a Spark iT Digital Champion, Paul learned how to write his CV, navigate job sites, and submit applications online. Now he’s enjoying a new role at Asda.
Volunteer Lyn, who runs the Digital Café, has seen countless moments like this. “I recently helped someone set up an internet banking app,” she recalls. “The branch was only five minutes away, but without that app, he couldn’t access his pension.” These small digital barriers, she explains, can have huge consequences in everyday life.
The café operates within Bridgwater Arts Centre, a community hub where digital support sits alongside other vital services. The local Job Centre often directs visitors here and around a third of attendees are looking for work. But the café isn’t just about employment support. Visitors come for help with everything from applying for a passport, driving licences or a bus pass, to pursuing new hobbies.
Take John, for example. After losing his wife, he had never needed digital skills; his life as a postman never required them. “My wife worked in an office, so she did everything. I never needed to use a computer,” he says.
Lyn discovered his love of vintage cars and started there, showing him how to search and sell online. Now, John attends weekly, enjoying both the digital skills and the social connection. “I came along to try to learn computers, and I enjoy the company,” says John. “It’s a nice crowd.”
Some challenges are deeply emotional. Lyn remembers a woman whose grandson had organised family photos online but couldn’t show her how to find them again. “She was tearful because she couldn’t access her memories,” Lyn recalls. “Sometimes families aren’t always the most helpful, they’re busy and don’t understand how confusing technology can be. We’re happy to show someone how to do something over and over again, without judgment.”
For Lyn, volunteering isn’t just about helping others, it’s vital for her own wellbeing. “It’s extremely good for my mental health. I feel I have a purpose and really enjoy providing people with the support they need. So it’s a two-way street.”
Digital cafés like this are part of a wider initiative across Somerset, aiming to help people build confidence online. Run by friendly volunteers, they’re free to attend and open to anyone who would like to learn how to navigate the internet safely, access online services, and improve their health and wellbeing.
To learn more about Spark iT and Digital Digital Cafés in Somerset, click here.
“My wife worked in an office, so she did everything. I never needed to use a computer.”
John, Digital Cafe attendee
