Computing success for sheltered scheme residents

Residents at Garsdale Court saw all their hard work pay off when they were presented with their Workers Educational Association - WEA East Midlands Certificates of Attendance in Computing on Friday 1 April.

For 12 weeks the residents on our sheltered housing scheme, who have an average age of 66, learnt how to:

• surf the Internet
• send e-mails
• type letters
• create spreadsheets
• develop other computing skills.

Ruth Holland, Sheltered Housing Development Officer says; “Our sheltered housing schemes provide lots of social activities for residents, but we wanted to go one step further. As part of a pilot project we've installed computers in two of our schemes.  The equipment is especially designed for older people, with large keyboards, easy to use mice and large screen settings.”

“Everyone taking part in the classes has worked hard but also had lots of fun.  Some have been using their new skills to send e-mails to family or friends and one resident has created a spreadsheet to show the tea club expenses.”

The other scheme taking part in the pilot is Whitecross House.

Contact Ruth Holland, Sheltered Housing Development Officer on 01332 711068 or e-mail ruth.holland@derbyhomes.org for more information.