Tablets and video calling: a practical guide

1. Choose a device type around the task

A tablet offers a larger screen for video calls, reading and on-screen controls; a smartphone may be easier to carry, while a laptop can suit typing or using a keyboard. Think about screen size, weight, battery life, grip, stand position, charging access and whether the person wants a touch screen, keyboard or voice control. Decide whether Wi-Fi at home is enough or whether mobile data is needed outside. Try a device at a library or with a trusted helper if possible. Avoid paying for more storage, speed or services than the person expects to use, and make sure the chosen device can still receive security updates.

2. Set it up together and keep the account in the person’s control

Charge the device, connect it to a secure home network and install only the apps the person wants. Help them create their own account and recovery method, using a password they can manage safely; do not keep or share it without permission. Set a screen lock, automatic updates and a trusted recovery contact. Save important family contacts and practise turning the device on, charging it and returning to the home screen. Write short instructions in the person’s preferred format, such as large print or a simple numbered list. If a helper needs ongoing access, use the service’s formal sharing or proxy settings rather than signing in as the person.

3. Make video calls feel natural

Agree a time with family, choose a quiet place with good light and put the device where it can remain steady. Practise answering, ending a call, muting the microphone and adjusting volume before an important conversation. A stand or stable surface can reduce the effort of holding the screen. Ask everyone on the call before recording, and remind the person that a caller cannot see what is on the screen unless it is shared. If a call becomes tiring, use a shorter conversation or switch to voice, a message or a regular phone call. The goal is comfortable contact, not learning every feature at once.

4. Adjust access for sight, hearing and dexterity

Increase text size and screen magnification, simplify the home screen and change contrast or display brightness to suit the person. Voice control or speech-to-text can help when typing is tiring, but practise how to stop listening and correct mistakes. Some devices and hearing aids support direct audio streaming; compatibility depends on both items and settings, so ask the audiologist or hearing-aid service before relying on it. Headphones may be more comfortable for a call, but the person should still hear important sounds around them. Try the settings during an ordinary call and keep a non-digital contact method available if the device is flat or difficult to use.

5. Use the health service for the person’s nation

The NHS App is the main app for NHS online services in England, such as GP services where the practice has enabled them. In Scotland, MyCare.scot provides access to personal health information and is being developed over time. In Wales, the NHS Wales App links to a growing range of services, including GP practice online services where available. In Northern Ireland, My Care provides access to selected secondary-care information such as appointments, medicines and some test results; it does not show GP records. Access and available features depend on the person’s local service and identity checks. A GP practice, NHS service or HSC Trust can explain what is available and how to get help without a smartphone.

6. Find free digital help and check social tariffs

Ask a local library whether staff or volunteers offer free help with devices, video calls, online forms or staying safe. In Northern Ireland, Go ON NI points people to local library support; elsewhere, availability varies by library service and community group. Ofcom lists broadband and phone social tariffs for eligible people receiving some benefits. Qualifying rules, coverage, mobile options and prices vary and can change, so use Ofcom’s current list and ask the current service provider about eligibility before switching. Check whether a tariff includes the speed, data, calls and support the person actually needs. If someone is struggling with bills, ask about affordability support as well as a social tariff.

7. Build safer habits for calls, messages and health accounts

Use a simple pause routine for unexpected messages: do not tap a link or share a security code; instead, open the known app or type the organisation’s address independently. A real support worker should not ask for a password or remote access to the device. Keep software updated, use a separate password for important accounts and enable extra sign-in protection when the person can use it. On a video call, accept invitations only from people they recognise and keep private health conversations in a suitable place. If a device displays a worrying payment request, stop and ask someone trusted to help verify it. The person should choose what support is shared and with whom.

Common questions