A new partnership in Darlington is aiming to tackle digital exclusion and improve access to healthcare by helping residents build the skills they need to use online NHS services with confidence.
Learning & Skills Darlington, the borough's adult learning provider, has teamed up with Darlington Primary Care Network to integrate NHS App training into its digital skills courses.
The courses are designed to help people access online healthcare services more easily by improving their digital confidence.
Dr Alison McNaughton-Jones, clinical director at Darlington Primary Care Network, said: "This is a great example of how effective partnership working can improve health outcomes for local people.
"Improving digital skills not only makes it easier for people to use the NHS app, it increases access to health information, support services, and other wellbeing opportunities, helping people to lead healthier lives.
"Improving digital capability also helps to reduce avoidable administrative enquiries to practices, freeing up staff time to respond to more urgent patient care needs."
All 11 GP practices in Darlington will promote the courses to patients who face barriers to digital access, ensuring the support reaches those who need it most.
The courses, which are free to most local adults, cover basic computer skills, internet browsing, word-processing, file management, and online safety.
From September, they will also include guidance on setting up and using the NHS App, including how to manage prescriptions, book appointments and view health records.
The wider aim is to support residents to stay healthier for longer, while also promoting pathways into adult education.
Chris McEwan, deputy leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: "Addressing inequalities underpins everything we do and one of our key ambitions is to help our residents live well and stay healthy for longer.
"This new partnership is joining up local services to address a real need within our communities.
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"It will equip people the skills they need to address their immediate health needs while supporting the wider determinants of health by opening doors to higher quality employment opportunities, education, and community connections."
The courses are delivered in a supportive, low-pressure environment to help learners feel comfortable as they build their skills.
Anyone interested in enrolling or finding out more about digital skills courses can contact Learning & Skills Darlington on 01325 405601 or visit www.darlington.gov.uk/digitalskills for further information.
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