**** STOP PRESS*** FREE  WORKSHOP for Over 55s*********
In collaboration with Vodafone, Yardley Neighbourhood Network Team are running a free workshop to help citizens in the area get the most out of their technology – whether that is a mobile phone, tablet or computer. The TechConnect workshop will offer practical advice and easy tips on how to keep in touch with friends and family, find and connect with online communities, and how to use devices to pay bills, do online shopping. The first TechConnect workshop in Yardley takes place on:

Friday 1st November, 2019, 1pm – 3pm at South Yardley Library B25 8LT
These friendly, informal workshops are aimed at the over 55’s and are free to those that attend, so if you know anyone who would benefit do let them know!  Please contact either Natalie Tichareva or Andrea Maynard on 0303 040 2040 or email ntichareva@disability.co.uk

Big thanks also to ReCOM who came to our Public Meeting 1st October and gave an interesting presentation about their work in our area.
ReCOM’s aim is to help people get online. With more and more government services going online and access to opportunities going “digital by default”, many are missing out on the practical, social and financial benefits the internet can bring. Their training is tailored for the individual, helping explore what each person would like to learn and help grow their confidence in using IT and the internet safely and independently.

We like to think of ourselves as a small charity with big impact! The work we do wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and passion of our amazing volunteers. Each volunteer is trained to support learners improve their IT and digital skills but, above all, they are friendly, patient, and able to put each learner at ease, working at their own pace.

Local Projects include Access IT for Employment project and IT@Home – both are completely free for those using the service.

Wednesday mornings at Acocks Green Library you’ll find their team running
Access IT for Employment. Here, those looking for work can book onto one-to-one sessions to improve their digital skills. Using the library PCs, you can have support to build a CV and cover letter, set up and use email, register on jobsites and complete online applications effectively – all while learning computer skills that can be used both professionally and personally. They also partner with other local employment organisations, so if you need help with interview skills or clothes, they can point you in the right direction!

IT@Home is their service for those who have difficulty leaving the home, perhaps due to health or mobility issues or because they care for someone who is housebound. A visiting volunteer can provide weekly home visits for up to 12 weeks, bringing our IT training direct to the learner. Often supporting IT@Home learners with digital skills that help them to regain independence, e.g. completing home shopping, managing utilities and accessing services online, as well as reconnecting with friends and family, e.g. through social media or applications such as Skype.

Get in Touch! If you would like to find out about volunteering for ReCOM, or know someone who could benefit from some training, please contact: ReCOM at admin@recom.org.uk or by phone 0121 663 0335