Digital Confidence Denbighshire’s Digital Tea Parties: Connecting communities and bridging the digital divide

At Cwmpas, we’re leading digital transformation in Wales to make sure everyone can make the most of online services.

7% of people in Wales today are not online. More essential public services are delivered online now than ever before, and it’s vital that people don’t get left behind. In Denbighshire, this figure increases to 9%.

To help promote digital inclusion in the county, our Digital Confidence Denbighshire programme recently hosted a series of Digital Tea Parties in Denbigh, Ruthin, and Prestatyn. These events offered a warm and inviting atmosphere for locals to explore the world of digital skills, where community members could expand their digital horizons while enjoying a hot drink and some cake.

While the Digital Tea Parties were all about making technology more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, they resonated especially well with Denbighshire’s older population – a group for who digital inclusion is critical, given that 46% of over-65s nationally do not use the internet.

Attendees had the opportunity to try out a variety of digital activities, from using Google Maps to virtually explore different places around the world, to playing language-learning games on Duolingo, learning how to view and buy train tickets, playing digital musical instruments, and even learning how to scan QR codes. Each activity was designed to be engaging and easy to understand, allowing participants to experience the practical and entertaining side of technology. The blend of learning and socialising created an open and friendly environment, where people felt comfortable asking questions and trying new things.

The response to the Digital Tea Parties was enthusiastic. Attendees thoroughly enjoyed the sessions, praising the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to learn new things without feeling overwhelmed. Many participants commented on how much they had learned, expressing surprise at discovering new ways to use the internet for everyday activities they didn’t realize were possible.

Comments such as, “Wonderful opportunity to get information using the internet”, “A most enjoyable afternoon at the Digital Tea Party learning but interacting with others”, and “Excellent sessions with knowledgeable, patient and pleasant tutors” highlights the value of digital training sessions in the community. The interactive format allowed attendees to see how digital skills could enhance their daily lives in practical ways, from planning future trips to accessing information and services quickly and easily.

For many, the events were a first step toward greater digital confidence. By breaking down the barriers associated with technology, the tea parties empowered attendees to embrace digital tools in a friendly and supportive setting. The sessions also fostered a sense of community, as people shared their experiences, learned from each other, and enjoyed the refreshments together.

By continuing to host digital training and support sessions like these, Digital Confidence Denbighshire is not only bridging the digital divide but also encouraging lifelong learning and social connections. Whether it’s learning how to navigate the web or finding out how to use apps for language learning, the aim is to help everyone feel confident and capable in an increasingly digital world.

To find out more about Digital Confidence Denbighshire, or to see what events are coming up for the rest of the year, visit our Digital Confidence Denbighshire webpage.