IT project receives lottery boost

These ladies are brushing up on their IT skills

A Pride Media Association project designed to encourage silver surfers to get online has been awarded a cash boost by the National Lottery.

‘Never Too Old To Do IT’ has been given £204,000 from the National Lottery Reaching
Communities Fund to provide computer training activities for over 50’s in Middleton, Heywood and Castleton.

There are a host of activities on offer across venues in Heywood and Middleton that are
 designed to suit everyone’s abilities.  As well as teaching over 50’s the basics of I.T., the friendly tutors will also guide them through everything they need to know from switching the computer on, sending and receiving emails, through to selling unwanted items online.

Jonathan Burns, Project Development Officer said the project would help to tackle digital exclusion and help over 50’s access and benefit from the internet.

He said: “The project will offer an informative learning environment where older people can develop confidence in using modern technology in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. 

Participants will be able to develop a wide range of I.T. skills which are relevant to their everyday lives; whether it be sending an email to a relative abroad, paying bills online or using the internet to research family history or reconnect with old friends.”

There are a series of 8 week foundation courses at Middleton Arena, Heywood Library and Castleton Children’s Centre as well as a host of extra classes for those Silver Surfers who want to take their use of I.T. that little bit further.

Jean Nott, a student on the Foundation course said the project has helped open up a new world for her and others taking part.

She said: “I have two grandchildren in America and I can use the internet to keep in touch with them and find out what they are doing. I’m really pleased with the course and it’s already taught me so much.”

Pride Media Association is also hosting volunteer training  session for over 50’s, giving participants the chance to learn how to pass on their skills to other individuals and become IT Mentors within their community.