Bield calls for Edinburgh volunteers to help older people ‘tap into IT’

Bield Housing & Care has called for Edinburgh volunteers to join the team and help bridge the gap between older people and technology.

Bield calls for Edinburgh volunteers to help older people 'tap into IT'

The housing provider has teamed up with local charity Tap into IT to run new computer classes at its Manderston Court development in Leith.

With the help of volunteers, the club will run weekly from Monday 11th March, and will help tenants build confidence using the internet, social media and other forms of technology, such as iPads and smartphones.

As well as learning new skills, the club will also encourage social engagement, helping to reduce the risk of isolation and loneliness which can have a detrimental impact on health and wellbeing.

Tenant Alfred Bash, 75, said: “I’m looking forward to meeting new people who are also keen to learn and increase their skills in using technology.

“I think being part of a club with others that are new to this will also give me confidence to ask questions on things I may not understand and not feel embarrassed for asking.”

Amy Telford, volunteer development Worker at Bield, said: “We run similar clubs in our developments across Scotland and our tenants get so much out of it.

“Many find that it opens up a whole new chapter in their lives. Our volunteers get a lot of satisfaction from it too and it’s a great role to add to your CV.”

Training, ongoing support and expenses will be provided to volunteers. More information is available from the Bield website.

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