Suite success for elderly PC users

A community centre in South Kirkby near Wakefield is set to celebrate the first anniversary of its popular computer suite that has taught local residents how to bank online, use word processors and reconnect with long-distance family members.

Joy’s Hall on Mill Lane opened the suite last year following the generous donation of eight laptops from Wakefield and District Housing (WDH) – and the opportunity to discover a range of IT skills has been snapped up by keen locals.

Since its opening in May 2009, the computer suite has grown in popularity – and the addition of a dedicated IT development worker through the Future Jobs Fund in March has given users the chance to learn in a one-to-one environment.

Shirley Goulas, from Northfield Road in South Kirkby, says she has learnt to use social networking sites in order to get back in touch with relatives in Australia.

“The computers are marvellous, I really didn’t appreciate how much they can do,” says Mrs Goulas, 76. “I’ve been able to use Facebook to communicate with my brother’s family who live in Adelaide, it’s been brilliant.

“I really enjoy coming here, it’s such a nice place full of friendly faces and it’s a great environment to learn. It’s wonderful.”

IT Development Worker Liam Emmett says a broad spectrum of people visit the suite in order to learn a range of skills – from basic mouse and keyboard functions to understanding the benefits of the world wide web.

“We have people of all ages visit the suite,” says Mr Emmett. “We have parent and toddler classes, an 11-16 youth club right through to the elderly. We’re able to teach them shortcut functions such as cut and paste, how to search for things on the internet and encourage safe internet use.

“People who aren’t used to computers tend to live in fear of what might go wrong, but we’re here to build their confidence and show that computers can really improve their lives.”

Owner David Hall says the computer suite has proved a popular addition to his already successful centre.

“We are grateful to WDH for providing the computers,” says Mr Hall. “They have been a valuable addition to the centre and there is always a demand to use them.

“We have a lot of regular visitors and it’s great to see them all enjoying what they are learning. It’s brought more people into the centre. Everyone who comes to use the computers leaves feeling more confident about modern technology.”

WDH donated the computers last year as part of Silver Surfers week which aims to teach over 50s the benefits of using the world wide web.