Hobbies & InterestsDigital WorldVirgin Media and Digital Unite to help older people get online Virgin Media and Digital Unite to help older people get online
28/04/2008
The digital world is fast paced and moving all the time. But without intervention, some sections of society could get left behind. That’s why the Silver Surfers’ Day Campaign, which focuses on getting older people online, is still going from strength to strength. To help promote the campaign, Digital Unite (DU) and Virgin Media have joined forces to do something extra special to stimulate older people’s learning, understanding and participation in the digital world.
The Internet can be a powerful tool for people in sheltered accommodation. Not only can it help them stay close to friends and family, it can help keep them connected to the wider world and give them the freedom to manage their lives without having to leave their home.
Sheltered housing providers now have a unique opportunity to help bridge the divide and give their older customers an opportunity to explore the digital world.
Applications are now invited for a free ’get online’ package for sheltered housing residents with all the equipment provided to get residents online plus technical support for a year, a 7 week training course plus free broadband.
The 17 successful sites will receive the following:
All the kit they need to get started
• 2 brand new desktop computers plus a year’s full support*
• Printer
• Additional 2 tracker ball mice – (specially adapted for people with mobility issues)
• 1 year’s free broadband from Virgin Media, with speeds of up to 10Mb
• Set up service, with everything is tested and ready to go
• Help when they need it – just give our team a call.
* Computer support will be provided for one year, up to a maximum of £1000.
Crucially, this offer also includes a learning programme that will give older learner the skills they need to get started. Digital Unite will be providing a seven-week digital literacy skills course for residents at the sheltered home and delivered by one of their specialist Tutors.
Geraldine Pack, Corporate Responsibility Manager, Virgin Media says: “The Internet offers exciting opportunities for all ages. More and more people are using their PCs for shopping, online banking, sharing photos and keeping in touch with their families. This project will allow those without the skills or resources to have access for the very first time.”
Emma Solomon, MD of Digital Unite says: "Over the last four years, we have gathered so much evidence of the very powerful, meaningful impact our Digital Unite Community Programmes have had and it is really rewarding to find a company like Virgin Media who recognise and value the difference they are making to the digital inclusion of older people. I am confident this will be a really inspirational programme and am looking forward to seeing applications come flooding in!"
Sheltered housing providers in Virgin Media broadband areas can apply for a "get online" package. For more information visit the website linked below.