Last week, residents living in sheltered housing schemes across the borough, were given computer taster sessions to introduce them to the wonderful world of digital technology.
To celebrate Silver Surfers’ Week, a national campaign to get the older generation on line, Sutton Housing Partnership has installed computers and free internet access in communal lounges for residents to use.
Forty eight residents attended the taster sessions, run by Sutton Housing Partnership, at over 9 sheltered housing schemes.Residents were also offered an opportunity to extend their computer skills with further training on offer from partners SCOLA.
One resident who took part, Dorothy Cleary, from St Paul’s Close, said: “I felt great using the computer, at 94 years of age it was my first time, and the session made me more in touch with what’s going on!” and she added, “I am going to be taking up the offer of training with SCOLA and will spreading the word to other residents.”
Dawn Eustace, Head of Sheltered Housing, said: ‘We know that computers and the internet can be a little scary for many older people and they just need a little help to get them started. We want to encourage our tenants and other residents to see the internet as a way to access services - including SHP’s website. Working in partnership in this way is a great way to break down the digital divide!"
Residents who wish to develop their computer skills can contact Sally Anne Yeats at Sutton Housing Partnership on freephone 0800 195 5552 to find out more.
Posted on Thursday 2nd June 2011