Tier 0 TEC Ready

TEC Ready is the first step in our Technology Enabled Care (TEC) plan. It means getting you comfortable with basic technology so you can use it safely at home. For example, at Tier 0 you should build simple digital skills such as learning how to use a tablet or smartphone and get help setting up devices and checking your internet. There are a number of group in South Ayrshire that offer support with your IT found via the Connect Website by clicking here. Being TEC Ready helps you stay connected, informed and in control of your health.

Why digital skills matter

Digital skills let you use online tools to stay well and independent. More and more NHS and council services are moving online, so getting online can save you time and travel. Scotland's Health Secretary said that getting people "online and [giving them] the right skills" is now "more important than ever", especially for healthcare . With a tablet or phone you can have video calls with your doctor (using the Near Me service ), order repeat prescriptions from home, or get health advice on NHS Inform .

Without any online access, older people may struggle to use these services. Research in Scotland found many older adults without internet access have trouble using public services or keeping in touch with family, which hurts their wellbeing . In short, learning a few digital skills can help you get help, enjoy hobbies, and stay independent at home.

Common barriers and solutions

• Lack of confidence. Many people feel "too old" for new technology or worry they'll break something. This is normal You can start small. Try one new thing at a time. Local digital support can assist you without any jargon. For instance, the Connect South Ayrshire digital helpline has friendly staff who "set up your device from scratch - in simple steps without any computer jargon" . You can ask them any question; they'll work through it with you.
• No or slow internet. If you don't have home Wi‑Fi, remember libraries offer free Wi‑Fi and public computers . You can sit in any branch and use the internet for free. Also, schemes like Connecting Scotland have provided free or low-cost broadband to eligible people in Scotland . Check if you qualify for discounted internet.
• Online safety concerns. It's good to be cautious. Use trusted sites (like nhsinform.scot) for health advice and never give personal or bank details to anyone who calls or emails unexpectedly. You can learn safety tips at free sessions: South Ayrshire libraries are running talks on "staying safe online, cybersecurity, how to shop online safely" for all ages . This will help you spot scams and protect your privacy.

By taking it one step at a time and asking for help, most worries can be overcome. Local volunteers and courses can guide you through any tech problem.

Free supports and resources

• Digital helpline: Call free 0800 432 0510 (Connect South Ayrshire) weekdays 9am-5pm. Staff there will patiently help with any device or computer question .
• Library sessions: Ask at your local library about digital drop-in sessions. For example, Connect South Ayrshire runs a monthly "Digital Support Group" at Troon Library (2nd Wednesday of the month, 10-12) where you can get one-to-one help with phones, tablets or laptops .
• Online courses: The Good Things Foundation's Learn My Way site offers free simple online courses to improve your skills and stay safe online . For example, you could learn how to send an email, do video calls, or use social media securely.
• Volunteer support: AbilityNet has a network of trained volunteers who give free home IT help to older or disabled people . You (or someone helping you) can call their helpline (0300 180 0028) or fill a form online for free support.
• Trustworthy websites: For health info, NHS Inform (nhsinform.scot) has easy-to-read guides. For general tech help, the Scottish Government's Connecting Scotland site (connecting.scot) has advice on devices and data.
• Printed guides: The Health and Social Care Alliance offers a "Discover Digital" guide (print booklet) explaining many digital tools for health and care. You can download it or order a free copy by emailing [email protected] .

All these supports are free. They are here to help you learn at your own pace.

Real-life examples

• Video calls with family or doctors: With a tablet or smartphone you can see loved ones face-to-face. You could video call a grandchild in another town or use Near Me for a GP checkup . These tools use your camera and microphone so you can talk as if in person.
• Voice activated helpers: Devices like Amazon Echo (Alexa) or Google Nest can help by voice. For example, you can say, "Alexa, call my daughter," and it will phone her handsfree . You can also set alarms, play music, or ask for the day's news on these devices.
• Large button phones: If a smartphone has too many buttons, you can buy an easy phone with big keys and pictures. These phones make it much simpler to call people or dial 999 in an emergency .
• Reminders and lists: Using a smart speaker or phone alarm, you can set reminders for medicine or appointments (say "remind me to take pills at 9 PM"). You can also make shopping lists by voice.

These tools show how digital gadgets can make daily life easier and safer. Many users find they quickly enjoy using them once they get started.

Get started (your next steps)

• Take a quick skills check: Think about what you want to do online (email, video calls, health info). You could try a short digital skills quiz or checklist (ask a family member to help find one online) to see what you know and what you might try next.
• Call Connect South Ayrhisre for help: Dial 0800 432 0510 (freephone) to talk to a Digital Support Adviser. They can guide you step by step, set up your Wi‑Fi, or show you how to use a tablet.
• Join a workshop or drop-in: Contact your local library to book a place at a digital skills class or drop-in. Information is on the Council's library website . For example, Troon Library's monthly drop-in welcomes any question about phones or computers .
• Practice at home: Try simple tasks like sending an email or searching for something on your phone. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel. Use free online lessons like Learn My Way or ask a friend to practice calls with you.
• Ask about devices: If you don't have a tablet or laptop, South Ayrshire may help you borrow one or check if schemes like Connecting Scotland can provide a device or broadband.

Every small step counts. You'll find that even one new skill can make a real difference in staying independent, feeling connected, and managing your care at home.