Digital Communication Tools

We’ve put together a list of useful digital communication resources, including guides on peer support for user-led online groups and creative online learning.

Lloyds Bank Foundation

Have a handy toolkit for online sessions, which includes a summary of tools you can use to make them more interactive and engaging. Resources include:

  • Mentimeter – an interactive presentation software which allows your attendees to participate in live polls
  • Slido – an interactive Q&A and polling platform
  • Jamboard – a virtual flipchart that allows participants to add sticky notes
  • Google Docs – allows you to make notes on an online shared document which can be saved as a Word document after the session

Top tip: when introducing new tools explain their purpose, how to use them, and give people time to familiarise themselves with these tools. Some people will find them challenging, so have an alternative way for people to engage in your session. Using the chat function can be a good way to do this.

Local Trust

Local Trust are a place-based funder supporting communities to achieve their ambitions. They have produced a Digital Toolkit for communities to get the most out of online resources for community engagement.

Local Trust Toolkit

The Digital Toolkit for Communities

National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO)

Have information on remote working and what to consider that includes supporting staff and volunteers to work from home and what charity trustees need to think about with links to resources to support digital meetings and team working. They list the below organisations and resources:

Catalyst – digital guidance and support

Cast – remote working guide

Digital Candle – offering one hour of digital guidance for free

Six tips for holding a remote meeting

Internet Video Facilities

Zoom

Skype

Google Hangout

MS Teams

Resource on peer support for user-led groups

Mind, Get Up Set Up, NSUN, Bipolar UK and Together for Mental Wellbeing came together to host forums over the pandemic with peer supporters and captured their shared learning in this Remote and Online Peer Support Resource.

The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Have produced a guide Getting Started with Online Learning for the heritage sector to create innovative and engaging online learning opportunities and to share what they do. The guide covers a range of free, easily accessible digital tools and resources.

Heritage Digital

Have created a free Beginners Guide to Digital Technology to help your organisation get started with digital in the heritage sector and start to harness the power of technology from back office to visitor engagement.