Innovative partnership will see tablet devices delivered free of charge to over-70s isolated by Covid-19, to help keep them connected.
New dedicated phone line delivered by We Are Digital will provide guidance and remote training to vulnerable customers to help them stay connected with everyday digital activities, including online banking
Working with Mental Health
Vulnerable customers will be able to access even more free and practical support to help them stay connected online, thanks to a new initiative from
Through this unique partnership We Are Digital will provide a specialist phone line to help up to 20,000 customers access the internet, at a time where gaining digital skills will help people stay connected to their finances.
The partnership will also deliver up to 2,000 tablets to over 70s who don't have a suitable device to access the internet as part of its pilot phase. Our local branch and telephony teams across
With guidance from We Are Digital's agents, users learn skills to help with everyday digital tasks such as online shopping and connecting virtually with family and friends, as well as online banking.
Supporting the nation's mental health
The isolation many feel as a result of the current crisis means more and more people are experiencing challenges with their mental health. That's why we're increasing our support for mental health charities, so that the vital services they offer are available when and where they are needed.
With our support, The Silver Line, partner to
We're also providing more support to our long-term charity partner Mental Health
Being there for our customers
We know that this is a difficult time and we want to be there for our customers. This partnership package of support is on top of measures we've already announced, as well as ongoing volunteering efforts from our colleagues.
We've enhanced some of our existing services and found new ways to help those who need it. For retail customers this includes payment holidays on mortgages, loans and cards, access to a
We have also launched a new dedicated phone line for elderly customers and developed a new process to allow a trusted person limited access to an account for customers who can't get to one of our branches and don't bank digitally, and we have ensured that
Supporting our communities
We're continuing to support our charitable Foundations as they help tackle social issues in communities, from mental health to domestic abuse, homelessness and disability. All four Foundations have already publically and individually reassured charities that they are on hand to support with any concerns.
And our colleagues continue to provide practical support to people, businesses and communities, sharing digital skills and resources to support financial capability and mentoring charities and small businesses remotely, as well as volunteering their time to local communities at this particular time of need.
For many right now, staying connected and accessing vital services is difficult - and for those experiencing isolation, this also can have profound effects on their mental health. That's why we believe offering practical and emotional support through initiatives such as these is so important in helping our vulnerable customers to feel more connected and in control. This is just one of the ways we are making it that bit easier for our customers to manage their finances and mental health during the current crisis.
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