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Facebook. Keep in touch

You do not need to post anything today.
You can start by reading, following a page, or adding one trusted friend.

Use this topic if you or someone you support want to:
  • Create a Facebook account, or sign in if you already have one.
  • Understand what you see on Facebook and what it means.
  • Add a friend or follow a page.
  • Write a short post or comment (optional).
  • Send a private message (optional).

Tip

If you are helping someone else, sit beside them and let them tap the screen themselves.
Talk them through it. It builds confidence.

What you need

  • A phone, tablet, or computer connected to the internet.
  • About 10 to 15 quiet minutes.
  • A phone number or email address (for sign in).
  • One trusted person to add. Or one local page you want to follow (optional).

Before you start. 60 seconds

  • Make sure your device is charged, or plugged in.
  • Connect to Wi Fi if you have it.
  • Keep your phone nearby in case a sign in code is sent to you.
Step 1. Open Facebook and sign in, or create an account

Choose the path that fits you.

If you already have a Facebook account

  1. Open the Facebook app, or go to facebook.com in a web browser.
  2. Enter your email address or phone number.
  3. Enter your password.
  4. Tap or click Log in.
  5. You should now see your Home feed. This is where posts appear.

Tip

If you cannot remember your password, use Forgot password and follow the steps on screen.

If you do not have a Facebook account yet

  1. Open the Facebook app, or go to facebook.com.
  2. Tap or click Create new account.
  3. Enter your name.
  4. Enter your date of birth (Facebook asks for this).
  5. Enter your mobile number or email address.
  6. Create a password.
  7. Follow the steps on screen to finish setup.

Important

  • Use a password you do not use anywhere else.
  • Never share your password or sign in codes with anyone.
Step 2. Understand what you are looking at

Facebook is a place where people share updates.

You will mainly see:

  • Posts. Updates from people and pages you follow.
  • Comments. Replies under a post.
  • Likes and reactions. Quick ways to respond.
  • Links. These open a website.

Tip

You can use Facebook without posting.
Many people use it just to read updates and follow local pages.

Step 3. Add a friend or follow a page

Choose one small step.

Add a friend

  1. Use the search bar at the top.
  2. Type the person’s name.
  3. Tap their profile.
  4. Tap Add friend.
  5. They may need to accept your request.

Follow a page

A page is used by a group or organisation. For example, a local community page, a sports club, a library, or a charity.

  1. Use the search bar.
  2. Type the page name.
  3. Tap the page.
  4. Tap Follow (or Like).
Step 4. Write a post or comment (optional)

You can start with something small.

Write a short post

  1. Go to your Home feed or your profile.
  2. Tap the box that says something like What’s on your mind.
  3. Type one short line.
  4. Tap Post.

Example: Hello. Just saying hi.

Write a comment

  1. Open a post.
  2. Tap in the comment box.
  3. Type your comment.
  4. Tap Post.

Important

If you are unsure, do not post personal information like your address, bank details, or travel plans.

Step 5. Send a private message (optional)

A private message is a message only you and the other person can see.

  1. Open Facebook.
  2. Look for Messages or Messenger.
  3. Tap New message.
  4. Choose the person you want to message.
  5. Type your message and tap Send.

Tip

If you do not see Messages, Facebook may ask you to use the separate Messenger app.

Common problems

If this happens Try this
I cannot sign in Check spelling carefully. Make sure Caps Lock is off. Use Forgot password if needed.
I cannot find the person or page Check spelling. Try searching with fewer words.
I am seeing upsetting or strange posts Stop and do not click. You can scroll past. If it feels like a scam, treat it as suspicious.
Someone I do not know sent me a message Do not reply. Do not click links. Treat it as suspicious.
I posted something by mistake You can delete your own post. Tap the three dots on the post and choose Delete if you see it.

If you are still stuck, see:
Quick fixes. When something goes wrong

If something feels wrong

If you see messages that feel urgent, frightening, or ask for money or codes:

  • Pause.
  • Do not reply right away.
  • Do not click links.
  • Do not share personal details.

Important

If money or accounts might be at risk, go to:
Money at risk. Do this first

Next step

If you are just getting started with staying connected, go back to the hub.