People in Bilston will be offered free training in how to use technology as part of a new drive to ‘bridge the digital divide’.
The SNJ Charitable Trust, based in Wolverhampton, found that the Covid pandemic had had a huge impact on some communities in the area. And many had a fear of computers and digital technology, leaving them isolated and unable to access vital services.
SNJ founder Neena Julka said: “We identified a big need and found people could not use digital technology to connect to each other or use the internet to access essential health or care services.
“We would like to bridge the digital divide that exists in the community. Many people are afraid to use computers, yet they have to use technology for everyday things like making appointments and searching for health and care services. Isolated and lonely people stuck in their homes need to learn to use technology to be able to make social connections and see people via Zoom.”
She added: “This project will enable people to develop digital skills, confidence and overcome mental health issues caused by the pandemic, giving them an equal opportunity in the job market.”
Neena said the charity’s workers had a wealth of educational experience and were able to deliver the project in the languages of the community.
“Many elderly people are not confident in English, but they can understand Hindi, Gujerati or Urdu. We have multi-lingual tutors,” she said.
SNJ has now launched an appeal to raise money for the project, including for room hire and computer equipment. The aim is to raise £2,300.
Anyone who can help, should visit https://www.avivacommunityfund.co.uk/digital-literacy-in-esol
For more details about SNJ’s work, visit snjcharitabletrust.org
