We are living in a digital society, in which every aspect of our lives is being profoundly affected by the digitalisation of data.

How we communicate and socialise; how we work, learn, stay healthy and participate in politics and the economy—all of these things are changing thanks to the internet and mobile devices.

However, there is a large group of people who either don't have access to internet and/or a mobile device or lack the basic digital skills needed to use these technologies effectively. Click on the items below for some support and guidance.

Improving digital skills

Improving digital skills

Read more
Computers in an internet cafe

I don’t have a smart phone / laptop / working internet at home

Read more
Social media apps on a phone screen

Digital inclusion help in local areas

Read more
Helping an older person get online

Helping older people get online

Read more
Using assistive technology

Using assistive technology

Read more

Frequently Asked Questions

Click the plus signs below to read the answer to each question.

  • I need help creating an account, my GP practice does not have time to register patients themselves on Preventing Diabetes

    The easiest way to register for a Preventing Diabetes account* is by clicking on the yellow ‘Login/Register’ button at the top of the Preventing Diabetes website.

    You will then be taken to the NHS login access site where you will need to follow the shorts steps outlined. Please make sure that you use the email address associated with your GP records.

    If you do not already have an NHS login or have any issues registering for NHS login, please use the link below to find support. About NHS login - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

    *Please note that to access this service, you need to be a North West London resident.

  • My English isn’t very good. I am unable to register

    Have you got a friend or family member who may be able to help you? Younger people who have grown up in the digital age can be a great help for anyone less confident.

    ReachDeck toolbar iconReachDeck is a free software used by many websites, including the Preventing Diabetes website. It reads the content of the web page out loud, and can even be translated into one of the available languages. First, click on the straw man icon in the bottom right-hand corner of the page.

    This will open up the ReachDeck toolbar. Here you can select whether to have text read out in English or have it translated into another language.

    ReachDeck toolbar

    Finally, highlight the text or the entire page and begin.

  • I do not know how to use the computer

    If you have a computer at home or a mobile device, asking a friend or family member might be the quickest way to get help. Younger people who have grown up in the digital age can be a great help for anyone less confident.

    If this is not an option for you, do not worry, there are other ways to get help.

    There are Online Centres in most communities where you can learn how to use a computer. These centres are also a great way to meet new people in your local community. You may also be able to sign up for some more training and become a more confident computer user. Find your nearest centre here: Find a centre | Online Centres Network.

  • I do not have access to a computer

    If you know how to use a computer but do not have one at home, you can visit your local library or and community hub. They usually have computers you can access the internet, often for free. To use a computer, you usually need to book a slot first. Find your local library and book a computer here.

    If you are struggling to pay for your current broadband, take a look at ‘Social tariffs’, which are cheaper broadband and phone packages for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits. For a list of broadband and phone social tariffs and to find out if you are eligible, click here.

  • Can I still create an NHS account without using or providing a photo ID?

    Yes, it is possible to create an NHS account without a photo ID.

    If you are registered for your GP surgery's online services, you will have been given 3 registration details:

    • Linkage Key (could be called Passphrase)
    • ODS Code (could be called Organisation Code or Practice ID)
    • Account ID

    This is not the same as the username and password you use to log into your GP surgery’s online services.

    Find out more here: What to do if you do not have photo ID

  • I am struggling to create an account what help can I get?

    The easiest way to register for a Preventing Diabetes account* is by clicking on the yellow ‘Login/Register’ button at the top of the Preventing Diabetes website.

    You will then be taken to the NHS login access site where you will need to follow the shorts steps outlined. Please make sure that you use the email address associated with your GP records.

    If you do not already have an NHS login or have any issues registering for NHS login, please use the link below to find support. About NHS login - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

    *Please note that to access this service, you need to be a North West London resident.

    Alternatively, have you got a friend or family member who may be able to help you? Younger people who have grown up in the digital age can be a great help for anyone less confident.

NHS Login help

Are you having problems setting up your NHS login account? See our help articles below: