Health Connections has taken over the Stay Connected project from the 2019 lockdown period, originally lead by We All Matter Eh? in association with a number of local charities, businesses and individual donors.

The Stay Connected initiative offers older and vulnerable (shielding) islanders access to a tablet or iPad and Wi-Fi devices to connect to family, friends and groups during the pandemic.

Whether it be regular video calls, check-in messages, booking appointments (or the Health Connections Community Transport Service to take them there), or simply keeping minds sharp with entertainment, news, brain training and mindfulness, no-one in our community should feel isolated due to lack of technology or access to vital online resources such as The Health Connections Directory.

This project will continue beyond lockdown! Once lockdown restrictions are lifted, we invite users to pop into our shop ‘Pre-Loved’ on Smith Street to learn more about their device, its features and find out about lifestyle and wellbeing apps which can help them live happier and healthier lives. Please note whilst we are in lockdown face to face training cannot be provided, however, our team are on call to support you with any technical questions.

How do I apply for a tablet and/or Wi-Fi device?

Please email stayconnected@healthconnections.gg with your name, address and phone number and brief details of how the equipment would assist you, a family member or friend. If you don’t have access to email you can contact us on 01481 227470. We will then organise a device and/or a pre-paid Wi-Fi unit based on your needs and have it delivered directly to your door via our partners as soon as possible.

You will be asked to sign and return a simple form in a freepost envelope for the loan or release of the equipment.

Phase 1 – Older Islanders and people shielding

The initiative offers older and more vulnerable islanders access to a tablet/ iPad and Wi-Fi devices for use during the COVID-19 lockdown and beyond. This promotes the advice from experts that, in these challenging times, it is important for family and friends to stay connected for everyone’s wellbeing. Please note this includes anyone shielding. We continue to receive significant support from the community and businesses for the Stay Connected initiative, including Sure Community Foundation, Galaxy CI, Resolution IT, Deloitte LLP and Swoffers, as well as private donations of second hand devices.

Phase 2 – Broader Reach

With the closure of visiting at the Hospital, Care Homes and supported living homes, we have widened the project to include these places and also wider younger carers and vulnerable individuals and groups. Please reach out if you would like to apply for a device (both tablet/iPad and Wi-Fi or one or the other).

Phase 3 – Digital Wellbeing

When things slow down on delivery of devices we will form new partnerships to focus on ‘Digital wellbeing’ and training. It’s exciting to think of all the islanders using new technology and the benefits that can bring and also ensuring they are digitally safe. Watch this space.

How do I donate?

We would welcome good quality second-hand devices including tablets, iPads, e-readers and functioning smart phones. If possible, please drop off safely at the Health Connections office at the Ron Short Centre (Beau Sejour) or at our Pre-Loved shop on Smith Street. During lockdown, please contact us beforehand so we know to expect you and arrange proper hygiene and social distancing measures. If you are unable to drop off your device, we can arrange pick up. Please provide your name, address and telephone number so we can arrange collection.

Alternatively, if you would like to donate funds which enable us to purchase useful technology for this initiative, we have an online #StayConnected funding page on www.giving.gg. All donations are gratefully received.