Barclays pledges to support care homes with digital skills

Barclays Digital Eagles have pledged to deliver digital skills, through virtual training, to at least 500 care homes across the UK in 2020.

The virtual training is designed to give care home residents and staff the confidence and skills to use technology to keep entertained, stay connected with loved ones and book virtual GP appointments, using iPads donated by Barclays.

The pledge is part of our long-term commitment to UK care homes, which will give care homes ongoing support with videos and learning guides.

Toni Ives, Head of Barclays Digital Eagles aid: “We’re aware of the additional pressures facing care homes and the challenge for families to stay connected. Our Barclays Digital Eagles are training care staff so they can help residents to keep in touch with their loved ones and help overcome isolation and loneliness. In addition, we’re training staff how to access virtual GP appointments, meaning they can get the medical care they need without the worry of leaving the care home.”

Chrissy Clace, Deputy Home Manager/Clinical Lead at Devonshire House & Lodge Care Home said:  “The Barclays Digital Eagles have recently delivered some fantastic training to our care home. The training sessions, and the iPad donated to us, have really helped us connect to GPs virtually, as well as help residents stay connected to loved ones, which has been welcomed during these challenging times.”

For more information on the Digital Eagles, please visit  www.barclays.co.uk/digital-confidence/eagles/

Existing support available for vulnerable and elderly customers:

• Vulnerable customers are automatically prioritised on the Barclays phone lines, this includes people who are 60+, those who have been identified as regular branch users, and those who are shielding.
• Barclays customers who are self-isolating or shielding can request a new Volunteer Shopping Device to allow trusted friends, family or carers to shop on their behalf. Customers can have a new convenient and secure way to let volunteers buy their food and other essentials. Spend can be easily tracked, topped-up, managed or cancelled through a dedicated Pingit jar.
• Barclays has created a guide to shopping in-store or online with helpful tips on making supermarket shopping a little easier. Find out more here.
• iPads are being donated to local councils, charitable organisations and NHS hospitals to provide those in need with the technology to stay connected to loved ones.
• Digital Eagles provide Tea and Teach sessions on YouTube. Ideal for those just starting on their digital journey, or those who are particularly vulnerable isolating at home. Key topics include how to connect with family and friends online, and alternative ways to bank.
• Barclays proactively contacted vulnerable and elderly customers by SMS, email, in-app notifications and phone call to help them with their banking needs.