Do you have medical appointments coming up or want to view test results but are struggling to use the NHS app? Then the free drop-in Library Service sessions may help.
Free, drop-in sessions
The Library Service is holding special, free, drop-in sessions across the county to help people download and use the app during Get Online Week (19 to 25 October). Get Online Week has been organised nationwide since 2007 by Good Things Foundation and highlights how being online can help people stay connected, access services, learn new skills and save money.
The West Sussex Digital Inclusion, Access and Safety (DIAS) Partnership is also supporting the Week, with partner organisations holding events across the county to help people gain the skills, confidence and support they need to make the most of the internet.
If you know someone who would benefit from any of these sessions, please let them know. You can visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/getonline for more information.
Barriers to digital services
Today in the UK, it’s reported that only 1 in 3 adults are described as comfortably online.
In West Sussex, it’s estimated that:
- 98,221 people are without a smartphone
- 131,422 are without a laptop
- 14% are without the essential digital skills for work
- 5% of adults are not online
West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, Councillor Tracie Bangert, said: “As life becomes increasingly digital, it’s vital that no one in West Sussex is left behind. Across the county, many residents still face barriers to accessing digital services – whether due to lack of skills, confidence, or connectivity. Those on low income, disabled people and older people are often more affected. Through the Digital Inclusion, Access and Safety Partnership, we’re working together to ensure residents have the knowledge, confidence and tools they need to get online safely and confidently. Get Online Week is a great opportunity to showcase the support available to our residents, not just during the week, but throughout the year, and encourage more people to take that first step towards a more connected future.”
Find a session near you
Please note that people who come to a session for support with downloading the NHS app must bring photo ID, and their NHS number if they have it. Below is a list of drop-in sessions where residents can get help to download and use the NHS app.
Sessions will be taking place at the following libraries:
Monday 19 October
Willowhale Pryors Lane, Rose Green, Bognor Regis, PO21 4JF, 10am – 12 noon
Burgess Hill 15-19 The Martlets, RH15 9NN, 10am – 12 noon
Billingshurst Mill Lane, RH14 9JZ, 10am – 12 noon
Broadfield 46 Broadfield Barton, RH11 9BA, 10am – 12 noon
Rustington Claigmar Road, BN16 2NL, 11am – 1pm
East Preston The Street, BN16 1JJ, 2pm – 4pm
Lancing Penstone Park, BN15 9DL, 2pm – 4pm
Crawley Southgate Avenue, RH10 6HG, 2pm – 4pm
Tuesday 20 October
East Grinstead 32-40 West Street, RH19 4SR, 10am – 12 noon
Midhurst The Grange, Bepton Road, GU29 9HD, 10am – 12 noon
Ferring The Street, BN12 5HL, 10am – 12 noon
Selsey School Lane, PO20 9EH, 2pm – 4pm
Goring Mulberry Lane, BN12 4NR, 2pm – 4pm
Wednesday 21 October
Horsham Lower Tanbridge Way, RH12 1PJ, 10am – 12 noon
Shoreham St Marys Road, BN43 5ZA, 10am – 12 noon
Haywards Heath 34 Boltro Road, RH16 1BN, 2pm – 4pm
Witterings Oakfield Avenue, East Wittering, PO20 8BT, 2pm – 4pm
Thursday 22 October
Findon Lime Tree Avenue, Findon Valley, BN14 0DH, 10am – 12 noon
Littlehampton Maltravers Road, BN17 5NA, 10am – 12 noon
Henfield Off High Street, BN5 9HN, 10am – 12 noon
Steyning Church Street, BN44 3YB, 2pm – 4pm
Worthing Richmond Road, BN11 1HD, 2pm – 4pm
Hurstpierpoint Trinity Road, BN6 9UY, 2pm – 4pm
Friday 23 October
Southwater Beeson House, 26 Lintot Square, Fairbank Road, RH13 9LA, 10am – 12 noon
Arundel Surrey Street, BN18 9DT, 10am – 12 noon
Hassocks 9 Ewart Close, BN6 8FJ, 2pm – 4pm
Monday 26 October
Southwick Southdown Road, BN42 4FT, 10am – 12 noon
