Think Ahead Stroke - Building confidence with QR codes

Think Ahead Stroke - Building confidence with QR codes

Think Ahead Stroke, a valued partner within the Digital Communities Partnership (DCP), set a forward-thinking goal at the end of 2025: to learn how to use and create QR codes to improve accessibility for their service users.

Recognising that many people affected by stroke may benefit from simpler, more direct ways to access information, the team wanted to build digital confidence so they could introduce QR codes safely and effectively into their everyday practice.

Through effective partnership working, Digital Wigan delivered a bespoke QR code learning session tailored to the needs of Think Ahead Stroke staff and service users. Zoe and Sam introduced QR codes in a simple, hands-on and supportive way. Attendees were encouraged to use their own mobile phones, allowing them to learn skills they could immediately apply.

During the session attendees:

• Learned what QR codes are and how they work
• Practiced safely scanning QR codes using their devices
• Gained confidence by experimenting in a supported environment
• Explored real‑world examples that could benefit them
• Picked up essential safety tips, including how to identify and avoid malicious codes

The interactive approach helped remove any hesitation or uncertainty. By the end, every attendee felt confident using QR codes and understood how to support others in doing the same.

Attendees also found out more about Digital Wigan’s services and are now aware of how to access support with digital skills and device access.

Creating QR codes

Alongside learning how to scan QR codes, Think Ahead Stroke staff also received guidance on creating their own QR codes. This new skill means the team can now add QR codes to their leaflets, posters and event materials, making information quicker and easier for service users to access.

It also strengthens their commitment to digital learning while giving their resources a modern, user-friendly update. Staff were given short videos they could watch whenever it suited them, making it easy to fit into their busy schedules.

Impact

The session helped Think Ahead Stroke:

• Increase the digital confidence of their staff and service users
• Improve accessibility for stroke survivors and their families
• Embed safe, practical digital tools into their service

By combining improved skills with practical application, the team achieved their goal of empowering staff while enhancing their offer to service users.