David Mallory volunteers as a Digital Champion with Clarion Futures, the charitable foundation of Clarion Housing Group, and works with others to help them access the internet confidently and safely and make the most of all it has to offer.
“I describe myself as a person that likes using digital technology and it is always around me. I have been using it all my adult life and recognise that it keeps me organised and makes my life easier. I also recognise it is important for others to know about it. As a digital volunteer, I am able to pass on my IT skills and raise awareness of online services such as being able to easily book doctors’ appointments, the ability to quickly find information, support available locally and keep in contact with others.
I volunteer as a Digital Champion because I believe people should embrace digital technology and not feel they are a slave to it. Using digital technology has almost become an expectation of adults in society as is their ability to read and write. I recognise the enormous benefits it can bring to people’s lives. I enjoy volunteering because it makes me feel valued and part of a team. Speaking to the people I support helps me get to know the local community. I like to feel that I am making a positive difference to the lives of others.
I support adults of all ages and backgrounds. I have helped learners with dexterity issues to easily write and send emails by themselves and have helped learners who have never had an opportunity to use a computer feel confident with using one. During lockdown, I demonstrated WhatsApp to one or two learners who were isolating, so they could see and speak to some of their family on Christmas Day.”
