Digital Skills
Digital skills are becoming increasingly important across health, social care and community services.
Whether you are using technology to communicate, access information, complete training, support people in your care, or collaborate with colleagues, developing digital confidence can help make everyday tasks easier and more effective.
This section brings together learning opportunities, resources and guidance to help you build your digital knowledge and skills, regardless of your experience level.
Building Digital Confidence
Everyone starts somewhere. Whether you are new to digital technology or looking to build on existing skills, there are opportunities available to help you develop confidence in using computers, mobile devices, online resources and digital systems via Digital and Data Capabilities Learning.
Learning at your own pace can help you feel more comfortable using technology and reduce barriers to accessing information, learning and support.
Microsoft 365 and Workplace Technology
Many teams use digital tools every day to communicate, collaborate and manage information.
Learning opportunities may include:
- Microsoft Teams
- Outlook
- OneDrive
- SharePoint
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Forms
Developing confidence in these tools can support communication, improve efficiency and help teams work more effectively together.
Useful learning materials can be found through Microsoft Learn and our own local learning opportunities.
Digital Skills for Health and Social Care
Technology continues to play an important role in delivering health and social care services.
Learning opportunities may include:
- Digital communication tools
- Digital record keeping
- Information sharing
- Digital inclusion
- Technology Enabled Care (TEC)
- Virtual support and consultations
- Digital health and care innovations
These skills can help staff provide safe, effective and person-centred support.
Digital Inclusion
Not everyone has the same access to technology or the same level of digital confidence.
Understanding digital inclusion can help us support people to access services, information and opportunities in ways that meet their needs.
Learning in this area focuses on recognising barriers, supporting access and helping individuals develop confidence in using technology.
Useful resources can be found through Digital Health & Care Scotland, AbilityNet and SCVO Digital Inclusion.
Information Security and Data Protection
Keeping information safe is everyone's responsibility.
Learning opportunities are available to help staff understand good information governance practices, cyber security awareness and data protection responsibilities.
You may find our General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) resources helpful, alongside guidance available from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
Technology Enabled Care
Technology can help people maintain their independence, improve wellbeing and remain connected to their communities.
Learning opportunities relating to Technology Enabled Care (TEC) can help staff understand how technology can support people to live safely and independently.
This may include digital monitoring, smart technology, communication tools and other innovations that support independent living.
Useful Organisations and Resources
There are a range of organisations that provide high-quality learning materials, guidance and resources relating to digital skills.
You may find the following useful:
- Microsoft Learn
- Digital Health & Care Scotland
- NHS Education for Scotland
- AbilityNet
- SCVO Digital Inclusion
- National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
- Good Things Foundation
- OpenLearn Digital Skills
These organisations offer learning resources, practical guidance and tools that can help build digital confidence and support ongoing development.
Related Learning Areas
Digital skills often connect with other areas of learning and development.
You may also be interested in:
- Practice and Professional Development
- Leadership and Management
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
- Health and Social Care
- Resources
Need Support?
If you would like support developing your digital skills or finding learning opportunities relevant to your role, please contact the Learning and Development Team.
Email: HSCPLearning@pkc.gov.uk