Through volunteering at People Know How, Callum found a way to merge his love for customer service, digital technology and helping those in need through being a Digital Support Volunteer.
Callum has supported People Know How in a couple of different roles over the years, and most recently joined our Reconnect service as a Digital Support Volunteer. He has had a passion for volunteering for a long time, helping the elderly reconnect with the world for over 10 years.
Growing up with learning difficulties alongside limited mobility, Callum understands how challenging the world is when you aren’t connected. Making a 4-hour round trip from Peebles, he will move mountains to ensure he is there to provide a warm welcome and safe space for those who attend the digital group in Craigentinny.
More than just digital support, a true community
Callum provides digital support at our digital group at The Ripple in Craigentinny. This is one of many digital groups that People Know How runs in partnership with organisations across Edinburgh and East Lothian. They form part of our Reconnect service, through which we provide a supportive environment to reduce digital and social isolation by building digital skills and maintaining connections.
Group attendees can receive personalised support from staff and Digital Support Volunteers like Callum or sit and join in the conversation, helping each other learn and making new friends. Many have been attending for multiple years due to the welcoming environment created by our team. They’ve created their own community; sharing recipes, baking treats and recounting tales of days gone by.
When travel can be difficult, and technology can be challenging, elders need spaces like this. Our team help make the spaces we collaborate with into a home for those who need it most.
A love for supporting others turned into a career
Dedicating so much of his life to supporting others, Callum hopes to prosper in this space by building a career around digital support.
While undergoing his college degree, Callum prepared materials, including a survey to gauge digital literacy and documents that guide users through day-to-day computing tasks. His wealth of knowledge and burning desire to help others has made him a valuable part of the Reconnect team.
Become a Digital Support Volunteer
We’re always looking for more VIPs like Callum to support our Reconnect digital groups. You don’t have to be a computer expert, but simply offer a listening ear and helping hand to someone in need of support.