Nationwide Building Society has expanded its Digital Lessons programme to community groups, aiming to help adults who lack confidence with technology and finance. The building society, which has branches in Birmingham, confirmed the move as new figures show that 40 per cent of adults worry about being left behind in a digital world.
More than 2,000 lessons already held
Since launching the programme in 2025, Nationwide has delivered more than 2,000 Digital Lessons in its branches. The society says over eight million adults in the UK lack basic digital skills, and 4 in 10 adults are concerned about being left behind as services and banking move online.
The expanded programme will see lessons delivered by colleagues from nearby Nationwide branches directly to community groups. The sessions are free, and groups can choose from a range of modules, each lasting up to 30 minutes, to tailor the content to their members' needs.
Topics covered in the sessions
The modules cover Digital Basics, including what digital inclusion means, why it is important, and the barriers it can create. Other topics include choosing and setting up a device, staying safe online, communicating digitally, and day-to-day use such as online banking and shopping.
There are also modules designed for carers, covering tools for managing someone else's health and finances. Legacy planning is also included, helping people set up wills and power of attorney digitally.
How to arrange a session
Community groups can arrange a session by enquiring at their nearest Nationwide branch, the building society said. The move comes as Nationwide faces competition from HSBC UK, NatWest, Lloyds, Barclays, and Santander.
Mandy Beech, Director of Retail Services at Nationwide, said: "Digital confidence can have a real impact on household finances. Being able to get online safely can help people compare prices, access support they're entitled to, avoid scams and manage their money more effectively."
She added: "But millions of people still lack the confidence or skills to do that. By taking Digital Lessons into community groups, we can help more people build those skills in a simple, supportive environment, while continuing to offer face-to-face support in our branches."
