CSH-08 (360G-SCVO-a13N2000005APaEIAW)

The main aim of this project is to establish a lending library of digital devices across our three sites in Edinburgh, Dundee and Glasgow. The Veterans that we support are either homeless, at risk of homelessness or in need, and the vast majority have limited means and therefore limited access to digital devices and technology. In the past couple of years, since recruiting an IT manager, we have placed strategic emphasis on Digital Inclusion. Having digitised our organisational systems and processes, we now wish to extend our digital offering further, directly to our residents. We know from working 1-to-1 with our residents that many would be keen to have greater access to digital tools and skills. Some feel socially isolated and live and have complex support needs, and by providing them with better access to digital devices, we feel this will can complement their overall support plan. Our ethos is to enable Veterans to live as independently as they are able, and by giving them better access to iPads and laptops, we feel this can assist and upskill them in a number of ways. Providing Veterans with access to devices in a safe, secure space will enable them to interact better with friends and family, research training and employment opportunities, access other essential support services when necessary, and improve their awareness of events and interests in the community.It would be our intention to provide additional digital support and training where required, and to increase the users’ confidence in navigating online resources. We would also educate users on the importance of security and safe usage.