5 Benefits of Being Online

Being online can help you access online discounts, as most companies offer deals for online users, through sales, or email discounts. Shopping online allows you to browse different sites for the best deals, getting detailed information about products at your convenience.

You also will have access to online banking, which means you can control your finances from anywhere through your bank’s website or app. You use this for, checking your balance transferring money, and contacting your bank at a time that suits you.

Most utility companies or services like council tax allow you to manage your accounts online. You can opt for paperless billing which means you'll get your bills over email, which not only saves paper but also means you know where your bills are stored. 

Being online can reduce loneliness and social exclusion through online social interactions. Social media allows you to talk to friends and family, at any time, from anywhere in the world. There is a number of different ways you can keep in contact with loved ones such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Facetime, and more.

As well as having chats and video calls, people also host activities such as exercise classes online, book clubs, or quizzes. Take a look at our guides to help you get started:

Social Media Guide

Zoom Video Call Guide

WhatsApp Guide

Whether it is baking or theme parks, there will be a video or a blog post that has exactly what you are looking for. The internet is full of lots of information to keep you busy, learn new skills or enhance your hobbies such as: 

YouTube is a great outlet to watch videos, vlogs and tutorials. There are many cooking, exercise, and painting classes on YouTube. You can also find tips on hobbies such as gardening websites, BBC food or Hiking.

There are many ways you can stay informed about what is going on in your area, the world, and government updates. You can find updates on services close to you via their social media or website. We often update our Twitter and Facebook pages with events and important information. Following these pages will keep you up to date on what’s going on in the community.  

News outlets have websites and Apps that allow you to keep updated with articles, stories and even games.

You can also view government websites and social media to find updates gov. The UK is the best place to find government services and information simpler, clearer and faster.

Being online allows you to search and apply for jobs. Most organisations exclusively search for candidates online. You can search for jobs on websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed and more.

There are also courses that you can apply for online and even take from the comfort of your own home. Southway offers a number of courses including, the Money course which is an online course designed to help you gain control of your finances and help with budgeting. We also offer a number digital courses which can be found here.