UK Online Internet Access at GCHR YMCA
Access to the internet is fast becoming a 'human right'. Numerous studies have shown that access to the internet opens up a vast number of opportunities to users putting them at an advantage over those that are not able to use the internet. Benefits include access to eGovernment sites such as Housing Benefit, discounts on shopping, quicker access to news of latest job opportunities, faster and easier communication, and, of course, access to social opportunities through Facebook, Twitter and the like.
GCHR YMCA has recently been successful in acquiring funding through the UK Online Centres initiative, funded by Nominet Trust, to introduce and extend internet access for our clients residing in our Peaks Lane hostel and The Foyer.
Jim Hudson, Manager at The Foyer, reports "not only are all the clients at the Foyer signed on to UK Online, but 3 people have already finished the short course study units. Already Foyer clients are using the new computers to seek transport advice and housing options; for instance, to check on their Shoreline bids and train journeys.
Jim adds "one of the five computers is in the staff office so clients can be guided in searches if they need coach help. Now there is easy access, a few clients are accessing their bank accounts online. Coaches are seeking to show more clients how to use this facility.
GCHR YMCA has recently been successful in acquiring funding through the UK Online Centres initiative, funded by Nominet Trust, to introduce and extend internet access for our clients residing in our Peaks Lane hostel and The Foyer.
Jim Hudson, Manager at The Foyer, reports "not only are all the clients at the Foyer signed on to UK Online, but 3 people have already finished the short course study units. Already Foyer clients are using the new computers to seek transport advice and housing options; for instance, to check on their Shoreline bids and train journeys.
Jim adds "one of the five computers is in the staff office so clients can be guided in searches if they need coach help. Now there is easy access, a few clients are accessing their bank accounts online. Coaches are seeking to show more clients how to use this facility.
The improved computer and internet services on offer to residents are also creating opportunities for visiting partners to work more creatively. Jim explains, "the Probation Team and Franklin tutors who use the training rooms at the Foyer are being trained soon to register their clients who attend courses here. On Mondays Franklin College run a Mental Health course for our clients. This Monday the tutor was able to bring the lesson on a memory stick, load it onto computers in the new suite and teach the lesson interactively!"
We are delighted by how this new opportunity is already creating visible and tangible benefits for our clients, and we look forward to reporting some great outcomes in the future.
[03.11.2011]
We are delighted by how this new opportunity is already creating visible and tangible benefits for our clients, and we look forward to reporting some great outcomes in the future.
[03.11.2011]