OLDER people are being encouraged to get online.

MP Bob Seely visited a digital drop-in session last week, run by Age UK, and met with the charity's Dan Taylor to find out more about the Digital Inclusion Project.

The scheme is helping Islanders aged 50-plus with training, support and tuition in all things digital.

The project, which is part of the National Lottery funded Ageing Better Programme, offers free drop-in sessions and one-to-one tuition, plus bespoke workshops for groups and organisations.

Mr Taylor said: “Through my work with older Islanders at Age UK Isle of Wight, I see the impact and benefits that technology can make to older people daily, from connecting people to their friends and family around the world, to being able to access services online.

“Our drop-in sessions have been a key part of this, enabling older Islanders to access local digital support in their own communities.”

Mr Seely said: “It was great to meet Dan and some of the volunteers at the Freshwater digital drop-in session last week.

“We are already seeing the benefits of telemedicine where patients can monitor their own health at home or talk to a consultant via a video link rather than having to make the journey to St Mary’s or the mainland.

“I would encourage anyone who is not too sure about how to get online to attend these sessions with Dan and his team, who can help you take the first step.”

Find out more on ageuk.org.uk/isleofwight/activities-and-events/digital-inclusion-drop-in-sessions/ or by calling 525282.