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IT suite launches internet novices into cyberspace [Gloucestershire Echo (England)](Gloucestershire Echo (England) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) RESIDENTS will be able to conquer their IT fears in a new 'digital den' at Hester's Way Community Resource Centre. Launched by Cheltenham Borough Homes (CBH), dozens of people attended a launch event where chief executive Paul Stephenson cut the ribbon and officially opened the new training room. Kitted out with 12 new PCs and a smart board, the room will offer tuition to people with little or no experience of the worldwide web. It will offer people the chance to build their confidence, explore their hobbies and interests online and find out how they can access services on the internet. Mr Stephenson said: "In a fast changing, technology-driven world we recognise that it is vital for people to learn about the benefits of getting online. "The launch of this new training den will give people the chance to gain confidence and new skills." Training will be provided on accessing internet services such as online banking, government services, social media, online shopping, digital photography and basic English and maths. For nervous novices there will be a drop-in session on Wednesday afternoons and Thursday mornings. Previously run as an IT training centre by the resource centre, CBH took over the lease and carried out a full refurbishment of the space over three weeks. Out-of-date equipment was replaced with 12 new PCs and an interactive smart board was installed to help students attending the training courses. As well as new equipment, the room has been completely redecorated with a new coat of paint, new blinds and new furniture. For more informal learning a chill out zone for one-to-one work has been created. Courses will be delivered in partnership with adult education and training organisations and by CBH's community services team. The aim of the den is to provide residents with convenient local access to modern IT facilities and offer them the opportunity to improve their confidence, knowledge and skills. Residents will be encouraged to volunteer to work in the room and share their skills with others. With access to government and council services increasingly moving online, the facility will help people to fill out online applications. The room is open to all residents and students will also be referred via the JobCentre Plus, by the resource centre and CBH's employment initiatives team which works to help get tenants back into work. To make sure it is offering the right courses, CBH is encouraging residents to get in touch and let it know the types of courses they would be interested in joining. Call 0800 408 0000 or email [email protected] for more details. "In a fast changing, technology-driven world we recognise that it is vital for people to learn about the benefits of getting online." Paul Stephenson....................................... (c) 2014 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. |