Dosh dilemma: Dave wants to go digital, but where does he start?

Dave is the first to admit he’s old school. No smartphone. No broadband. No online banking.

But he’s had enough of hearing his mates brag about bargain deals and handy apps, and he reckons it’s finally time to join the digital world.

The problem is, Dave’s a pensioner on benefits and money’s tight.

So what’s the cheapest way for Dave to get online and build his digital skills?

Good news, Dave, there are plenty of low-cost, and even free, options.

Social broadband and mobile tariffs

Because Dave receives benefits, he could qualify for a social tariff. These are discounted broadband and phone packages for people claiming universal credit, pension credit and some other benefits. You might also hear them called 'essential' or 'basic' broadband.

They work exactly like regular broadband, just with a smaller price tag.

Why social tariffs are worth a look:

• cheaper than standard deals, usually around £10 - £20 a month
• decent speeds, often 30 Mbit/s or more – plenty for video calls, online shopping and streaming TV
• low or no setup costs
• free to switch if your provider offers one
• no mid-contract price rises, what you agree to is what you pay
• no exit fees, so you can leave if your situation changes

If your current provider doesn’t offer a social tariff, they may let you leave without a penalty so you can move to one that does.

A full list of social tariffs can be found on the Ofcom website.

It’s worth noting that Community Fibre also offers a social tariff with free setup and speeds of around 35 Mbit/s, which is more than enough for staying in touch and streaming TV.

Free Wi-Fi in libraries

Most public libraries offer free Wi-Fi and access to desktop computers.

You’ll usually need a library card, which are free, but many libraries allow walk-ins. Once you’re signed up, you can:

• browse the internet
• use email
• apply for services or benefits
• print documents, like travel tickets or letters

Many libraries also run free digital skills sessions, especially for beginners.

It’s worth checking with your local library about:

• booking times
• session limits
• classes or one-to-one help

Free internet in Jobcentres

Jobcentre Plus offices across the UK provide internet access, often through dedicated Web Access Devices (WADs).

Some allow walk-ins, but you’ll usually need to:

• book a session
• have an appointment

Work coaches and digital mentors are often on hand to help with:

• basic computer skills
• online forms
• job or benefit applications

The National Databank

Think of this as a food bank, but for mobile data.

Run by the Good Things Foundation, the National Databank provides free SIM cards, from O2, Vodafone, or Three with:

• mobile data
• texts
• calls

To qualify, you must:

• be 18 or over
• be on a low income
• be unable to afford or access the internet

This can be a great stepping stone while you’re getting set up.

National Digital Inclusion Network

Also run by the Good Things Foundation, the National Digital Inclusion Network includes 7,300+ organisations across the UK helping people who are digitally excluded.

Local digital hubs may offer:

• free internet access
• devices, like tablets or laptops
• digital skills sessions
• one-to-one support

Some offer all three, so it’s well worth checking what’s available near you.

Some 'going digital' tips

• Start small: a basic tablet can be easier to use than a laptop or smartphone, especially for beginners.
• Ask for help: libraries, community centres, and charities are used to helping first-timers, there’s no such thing as a silly question.
• Watch out for scams: going digital is great, but be cautious. Never share passwords or bank details unless you’re 100% sure who you’re dealing with.
• Take your time: there’s no rush. Learning at your own pace is the best way to build confidence.

We hope this helps, Dave. Going digital doesn’t have to cost the earth, and you don’t have to do it alone.