Lisa's story as a PC Pals volunteer for St Luke's Digital Support Services
Background to PC Pals
Our PC Pals Digital Inclusion Programme started in 2009 and since then has been running weekly with the support of corporate volunteers. The programme provides IT support and mentoring to members of the St Luke’s community. Access to technology and support to help members of our community in ways other than just I.T support. Through this programme, people who struggle with access to technology and its ever evolving nature can find support and ways for engagement, learning and also for access to materials and communication that might otherwise not be accessible to them. The sessions are designed around the participant's needs and will be flexible and adapted to the current climate. Helpful advice is also provided on many topics such as using smart phones, emailing, online shopping, online applications, video calls and much more.
Who attends PC Pals?
Our PC Pals Digital Inclusion Programme provides IT support and mentoring to the St Luke’s community and members who want to increase their skills using computers, smartphones, or the internet. Service users might not have the equipment at home, or might not like formal teaching methods. The
programme is open to all ages. Corporate volunteers give up their time to teach people the absolute basics of computing in our Online Centre on a one-to-one basis. This one-to-one IT mentoring programme allows people to be in charge of what they want to learn. Whether it be learning how to apply for
jobs, setting up a Facebook account or doing their shopping online – our volunteers can help.
Lisa's reflections
For Lisa, volunteering is more than just giving back—it’s about connection. A final-year Mathematics student at City
University, Lisa has been volunteering with us for two years, ever since she spotted the opportunity on her university’s
volunteering board. Originally from Marseille, France, she was drawn to the role because of her love for people.
"I really wanted a people-facing role—I just love people," she shares. "I like to help them and see them happy. Even the
smallest things we do can make a big difference in their lives."
Lisa’s weekly volunteering sessions have given her a first hand view of the challenges many people face, particularly those
who struggle with technology or language barriers. "The biggest issue I see is not being able to book things—whether it’s a
doctor’s appointment or a taxi. For people who have moved to the UK and aren’t fluent in English, navigating apps and
websites can be really difficult."
She believes that, as a society, we need to ensure that there’s always a human connection available, even as services
become more digital. "There should always be someone people can call when they need help," she says.
When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering, Lisa is quick to encourage them. "Just give it a go!
You don’t need to be an expert—we’re just helping with things that come naturally to us, things we grew up doing. These
are simple tasks, but showing someone how to do them can have a huge impact on their life."
Lisa’s dedication and enthusiasm highlight the power of small actions in creating a more inclusive society. Her story is a
reminder that sometimes, a little help can go a long way.
St Luke’s Digital Support Services – How to get involved?
Our services are delivered from the Business and IT Support Hub, a space designed to promote connections and growth for job seekers, entrepreneurs, and those in need of digital guidance.
PC Pals: Every Wednesday, 12–2 PM (by appointment).
I.T Drop-in Service: Every Tuesday, 2–3 PM.
Tea, Tech & Cake – Quarterly group events offering assistance with quick tech queries on mobile phones, tablets, apps, and internet usage.
National Data and Device Bank: We support people in getting connected with free mobile data.
Online Centre: Open Monday to Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, offering free use of PCs and Wi-Fi.