Following mental health struggles and being in a job he did not like, 56 year-old David* knew he had to take steps to change his life around.
He turned to Steps2Wellbeing, the NHS’s free Talking Therapies service for adults with anxiety and depression.
With their support, David felt empowered to go for a career he has always wanted – cyber security – and found an online course for him to start that journey.
But David, from Weymouth, soon encountered a giant stumbling block – he only had a smartphone to carry out his studies.
He explained: “The screen space on my phone was simply too small for me to study effectively. Trying to read research papers, write assignments, and navigate online learning platforms on such a small display was a significant obstacle to my progress.”
Again, it was Steps to Wellbeing, that offered a solution. His employment adviser there referred him successfully for a Digital Doorway laptop.
“The steps to well-being employment advisor suggested that a laptop would help me study for a new career and manage my mental diversity,” David recalled.
“Thankfully, the laptop was already set up and ready to use when I received it, so I didn't need any additional digital support to get started.”
Suddenly, David had the tool he needed. He’s been able to use the laptop to complete research and assessments for his Level 3 course in cybersecurity.
David said: “Thanks to Digital Doorway, I could quickly get a laptop, which I couldn't afford alone. It has been life-changing because it's allowed me to start studying for a new career and with my current health issues, I needed a career change. I felt lost and didn't know where to begin.
“Now, I'm making progress in my course, and it's given me a real boost in confidence and a much more positive outlook on the future. Before, trying to study on my phone with multiple windows open was incredibly stressful and increased my already high anxiety.
“The laptop itself is fantastic. The long battery life means I can study in peaceful places like the beach or the library without worrying about finding a plug socket or being interrupted.
“Studying in a quiet location has helped to keep my anxiety levels down while I'm trying to concentrate. It will also be invaluable for the practical parts of my cybersecurity course later.
“Digital Doorway has genuinely made a significant and positive difference in my life."
*We have changed David’s name as he wishes to remain anonymous.