Information for Learners

All our sessions are free and open to anyone who wants help using computers, tablets or smartphones and accessing online services. Our aim is to help you learn new technical skills and build confidence using digital devices. Where possible, volunteers try to help you learn how to do things yourselves, rather than just completing tasks or fixing issues for you. Some problems need PASSWORD access, so be sure to bring ALL your passwords with you, written on paper.

We normally offer help on a one-to-one, first-come, first-served basis. We will try to pair you as soon as possible with an appropriate volunteer. (Volunteers can be identified by their name badges on red lanyards). While you are waiting to be matched, you can order a free cup of tea or coffee at the bar and have a chat with other members.

We are obliged to keep an attendance list, so if it is your first time, or you haven’t been for a long time, we’ll take your name, email address and phone number. We sometimes mark in regulars without asking them, but do make sure you have checked in so we are aware you are waiting to be paired with a volunteer.

We have only a small number of volunteers. Although they can all handle most of your problems, they may need to Google your problem/requirement or check with a colleague. Some volunteers specialise in topics (e.g. Windows/Mac,Android/iOS or WhatsApp) so we sometimes need to swap people around. If you have a problem that is a bit specialised, or suspect might need some research, please let us know in advance by emailing fivebells.computerclub@gmail.com or messaging via the WhatsApp group. However, this does not book your volunteer – it just prepares us.

We have asked volunteers to try and spend a maximum of 25 minutes with each person, so please don't hang on to them if you can see someone else waiting. During busy periods, we may have to restrict help offered to one question at a time.

Do share any comments, feedback or suggestions you have. We are always looking at ways of improving and expanding our sessions and the services/support we offer. Please request a feedback form or speak with club co-ordinators at a session or send an email to fivebells.computerclub@gmail.com or via the WhatsApp groups.

Our volunteers are delighted to share their technical knowledge with you, but they are not computer technicians and it may be that your issue requires professional technical support.  We understand that it can be frustrating if, for whatever reason, a volunteer is unable to solve an issue, or if you have to wait for some time, but rudeness will not be tolerated. WhatsApp groups should be used only for technical or social purposes. If there are any issues you want to raise, please do that privately to the club co-ordinator.

We hope you will enjoy attending our free and friendly club, and we look forward to welcoming you.

14/2/26