How to work with digitally excluded volunteers

• Do they have the data or devices they need to engage with your charity and to use any volunteer management platforms?

• Do they have the skills they need? 

• Do they feel confident online

• Do they have specific concerns about using digital tools (for example, are they worried about online security or lack the confidence to learn something new?) 

Advertise volunteer roles online and offline 

Advertising roles both online and offline will help to attract a broader range of volunteers. As well as advertising on volunteer websites, put up posters in community hubs, libraries or universities. You could attend community events and markets, advertise on local media, promote your volunteering opportunities through local groups, or advertise at your local volunteer centre.  

And don’t forget the power of word-of-mouth. When you’re looking to recruit new volunteers, your current volunteers could be the best way to attract new supporters.  

Offline support for online tools  

If you are introducing a new online tool for volunteers to use, it can be helpful to put together a printed information sheet for those who are wary of using it. That might be a simple guide outlining the steps someone will need to be able to use it – including basics like how to log on. Having a physical information sheet can be very reassuring for users while they get started and build their confidence using a new tool.  

Provide support and training 

The Charity Digital Skills Report 2025 found that growing staff and volunteer digital skills is a priority for 43% of charities. Doing so will help volunteers to increase their digital skills, build confidence, and inspire them to keep learning in the future.  

Talk with your volunteers to find out what areas of training they need. For example, cyber security training to help them feel more confident online, training on a specific tool or platform they need to use for their role,or simply having some practice time alongside someone with stronger digital skills.  

There are lots of free or low cost online training programmes available, for example:  

• The National Cyber Security Centre lists NCSC certified training schemes

• Google offers free digital skills training, including how to get started with AI

• Learn My Way offers free online digital learning for beginners

• The Open University provides free online training on a range of subjects, including  an introduction to cyber security

• Charity Digital Academy has a number of training courses available, on everything from cyber security to AI. There is also a wealth of free webinars available on-demand. 

Onboard digital champions 

There’s nothing like in-person, friendly support to help volunteers build confidence when learning a new digital skill. Digital Champions are one way of offering that. Maybe there’s someone in your existing team of staff or volunteers who has the skills, patience and enthusiasm to help volunteers who’d like some extra support. Or you could look to recruit a new volunteer to specifically take up the role.  

Take a look at the Digital Champions Network for ideas and training, and our article on how to help staff and volunteers embrace digital.