About Rick
Hello, I'm Rick
I've worked in IT for 14 years, and for the last four I've called Princes Risborough home.
By day I'm a senior IT technician, looking after the computers and systems a business relies on. In the evenings and at weekends I'm The Chiltern Techie – helping people around here get on with their own technology, at their own pace.
Away from the screens (well, mostly)
I live in Risborough with my wife and our four dogs, so if you're out and about around Monks Risborough, there's a good chance you'll spot me walking them. Otherwise you'll usually find me watching Liverpool, catching up on the latest tech news, or trying out the newest gadgets and software to see how they work. Yes, that's my idea of a relaxing evening.
Why I started The Chiltern Techie
Technology never stands still. A phone update moves all the buttons, the bank wants you to use an app, the surgery asks you to book online – and it's very easy to feel left behind. That isn't anyone's fault. Even those of us who work in IT have days when something new makes no sense at first.
What most people need isn't a gadget or a manual. It's someone patient to sit beside them, explain it in plain English and let them have a go. That's what I wanted to offer my neighbours.
How I work
At your pace
We go as slowly as you like. I'm happy to explain things twice – or ten times.
Plain English
No jargon. If I do use a techie word, I'll tell you what it means.
Notes to keep
I leave simple written steps, so you can do it again after I've gone.
Honest and safe
Price agreed before we start. I won't sell you things you don't need, and I'll never ask for your passwords.
Families are welcome to book on behalf of a parent or grandparent – use the booking form.
Where and when
Areas I cover
- Princes Risborough and Monks Risborough
- Prestwood and Great Missenden
- High Wycombe
- Aylesbury
- Surrounding villagesjust ask
Opening hours
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday to Thursday6:30pm to 9pm
- FridayClosed
- Saturday10am to 5pm
- Sunday1pm to 4pm
Evening home visits start by 7:30pm; later slots are for remote help. Messages are welcome any time.
My promise to keep you safe
- I will never call you out of the blue. I only contact people who have asked me to.
- I will never ask for your passwords, PINs or bank details. If a password is needed, you type it in yourself.
- I will never ask you to buy gift cards or move money.
If anyone contacts you claiming to be The Chiltern Techie and asks for any of these, it isn't me. Hang up, and call me on 07910 202256 to check.
Questions people ask
Do I need to know anything about computers?
Not at all. I'll start from wherever you are and explain everything in plain English.
Can I book for my mum or dad?
Yes. Lots of families book for a parent or grandparent. You can be there, join by phone, or leave it to me – and I can send you a short update afterwards.
I'm deaf or hard of hearing. Can you still help?
Yes. You can book by text, email or the online form, or call through Relay UK. During visits I'll face you when I speak, write things down, and leave step-by-step written notes. Remote help can be done by video call with live captions, or by text chat.
I have sight loss. Can you help with that?
Yes. I can set up larger text, magnifiers, high-contrast modes, screen readers and voice assistants on your devices, and teach you to use them. I can also print notes in large type.
I get tired quickly. Can we take it slowly?
Of course. We can take breaks, keep sessions short, or split one session over two visits. Just tell me what works for you.
What if you can't fix it?
I'll tell you honestly and explain your options. You only pay for the first half hour, however long I spend trying.
Will you ever need my passwords?
No. If a password is needed, you type it in yourself and I'll look away.
How do I pay?
By bank transfer or cash after the visit, and I'll give you a simple receipt. Card payments are coming soon.