Funding success sees Muir residents key in to online skills
RESIDENTS at a Muir sheltered housing scheme have begun surfing the internet thanks to their successful Big Lottery funding bid.
The residents at Smithy Court in Little Sutton, Ellesmere Port, have been receiving computer lessons as part of a Government-backed initiative aimed at making internet access available to as many people as possible.
Grant funding of about £8,500 was awarded after residents submitted a Muir supported application Social Group, along with assistance from training providers We Are Digital Ltd.
The money has helped them purchase 12 laptops and Wi-Fi installation, as well as 12 weeks of training and ten hours of private tuition.
John Fletcher, Sheltered Scheme Officer at Smithy Court said: “Residents have found the training thoroughly enjoyable so far.
“We’ve had plenty of good feedback from them and they are slowly getting to grips with things.
“They are developing new keyboard skills and getting them online can open up a whole new window on their world.
“They have had a taste of what they can do such as going on Skype to speak with friends and family, and online shopping, so they are keen to learn more.
“It’s a brilliant scheme,” John added.
Residents will continue to receive training over the coming weeks, which was previously rolled out at another Muir scheme; at Tweedsmuir in Chester.
We Are Digital’s Chris Watermaine, who has been delivering the internet training to tenants said: “Things like this can open up a whole new range of opportunity.”