Life-changing experience for Meg Holland

Meg Holland now feels at home with a computer

For Meg Holland getting online has proved to be a life-changing experience.

Meg, 62, from Turf Hill, finds it hard to get out and about for health reasons but digital training from the housing society has certainly opened up new online horizons for her.

She said: “I used to do a few basic things on the computer but improving my knowledge has brought so much to my life. I now use the internet for everything from paying bills and banking to downloading knitting patterns and recipes and playing games.

“As I don’t get out of the house much it’s also great to be able to shop for things like groceries from the comfort of my own home.”

In addition, Meg’s IT skills are bringing her important social benefits.

“I have a good friend who moved out of the area. I really missed talking to him but now we can get together on Skype whenever we want and have a good chat!

“It’s also great fun to play games on the computer - and there are some that can help you improve your IT skills.”

As a member of RBH’s Representative Body Meg has also found her computer a valuable way of carrying out research on housing issues and contacting colleagues.

She got up to speed with computers thanks to a series of lessons from Miranda Clarke, RBH’s Digital Champions Co-ordinator, who is leading the society’s drive to transform lives across the borough.

Miranda said: “Meg is a shining example of how quickly people can pick up computer skills and of what a difference it can make to their lives.

“I’m thrilled that a number of residents and RBH employees have come forward to be Champions - but we are still looking for more. We also want to hear from anyone out in the community who feels they could benefit from receiving training.”