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Nationwide has rolled out a new initiative across its 605 branches, aimed at helping people, including non-members. The building society is looking to enhance people's confidence with technology on their local high street, as an estimated 11.3 million adults lack essential digital skills.
The scheme supports Nationwide's commitment to keep every branch open until at least 2028. The sessions offer practical, easy-to-understand guidance - from setting up devices and bank accounts to identifying scams and making video calls - in an effort to combat digital exclusion and strengthen communities.
Since starting trials of the sessions across its branches in July, Nationwide has already hosted more than 562 events, assisting over 3,000 people. Statistics show that around 4.8 million working-age adults have never used the internet, while over half (52%) can't complete all 20 tasks within the UK's Essential Digital Skills Framework.
The consequences can be serious, ranging from falling victim to fraud and missing out on savings, to struggling with job searches and experiencing loneliness. Nationwide's Digital Sessions are held in person at each branch, last for up to 30 minutes and are available free of charge to anyone, regardless of whether they bank with Nationwide.
Stephen Noakes, Nationwide Director of Retail, said: "Digital exclusion remains one of the most pressing challenges facing society today and for many, the inability to access the internet safely can lead to financial disadvantage.", reports the Mirror.
"We launched Digital Lessons in July - providing face-to-face support in our branches for customers who may need some extra help or reassurance to get online. We're committed to continuing this support, helping more customers build the confidence and skills to thrive in a digital world."
The seven main dangers of digital exclusion include: Fraud and scams: An eye-watering £2.3 billion is lost each year, with those not connected being most at risk as they miss crucial online warnings or cannot spot fraudulent schemes.
Loneliness: There's an indirect connection between poorer digital abilities and isolation due to its link with social exclusion.
Mental wellbeing: Ofcom research shows that people who are offline are twice as likely to report poor wellbeing and life dissatisfaction.
Financial exclusion: Households without digital abilities miss out on up to an enormous £744 annually as they cannot shop around for better deals or access online-only accounts.
Job prospects: People lacking digital capabilities are five times more likely to be out of work. More than half (52%) of working-age adults cannot manage all essential digital tasks.
Offline consumers are losing savings on goods and services as they miss out on online-only discounts, find it difficult to compare tariffs or track spending easily. Consumer watchdog Which?
estimates that the "digital divide" costs some households hundreds of pounds annually on utilities, insurance and travel.
Without digital tools like video calls, messaging, email, people face communication challenges, losing touch with family, friends and community services. Age UK reports that one in six over-65s never go online, exacerbating loneliness.
Feedback from the Digital Lessons shows positive results, including:
More than 562 events have taken place across the UK Since the lessons began in July, over 3000 customers have received support 100 per cent of attendees reported feeling more confident after their session Average digital knowledge scores have increased from 6.28 to 8.98 out of 10 86% of participants would recommend the session to others The content was rated 9.4/10 for clarity and relevance