Computer training for residents

THE Yeovil-based Yarlington Housing Group is helping to get its residents 'online' with computer training sesssions.

The initiative is to help educate Yarlington's residents and ensure they do not miss out on the social, educational and financial advantages the internet offers.

Yarlington’s Resident Involvement team joined forces with Retirement Living to promote independence and empowerment through their computer sessions which were quickly booked up.

Staff members from across Yarlington volunteered an hour of their time to help tutor residents with little or no computer skills in online shopping, staying in touch with friends and family and surfing the web.

It is hoped the sessions will provide a lifeline to those who live far away from family and for elderly residents, help to reduce social isolation and give them the opportunity to keep in touch with the outside world.

Resident Involvement assistant, Amy Stanley, said: "The computer sessions were a huge success and our residents proved that it’s never too late to learn!

"They left with renewed confidence in using their computers at home, whether it be to Skype with relatives or engage with us here at Yarlington."

Amy added: "One highlight from the sessions was seeing an older resident use Skype for the first time to speak to his grandson up in Kent – the look of amazement and delight on his face was very touching."

A Yarlington resident that attended the sessions said: “I have learnt more about my laptop and I realise the more I play about with it the more I will learn - I am a complete novice. Thank you very much!”

PHOTO: John Keep from IT Help at Home, Yarlington's community core co-ordinator Elizabeth Churchill, Yarlington's Resident Involvement manager Ben Azariah, Yarlington's Resident Involvement assistant Amy Stanley and (front), Yarlington residents  Mr & Mrs Greenwood.

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