Older people learning how to use laptops at the Creighton Centre IT Club
Want to learn IT skills but not sure where to start?
A new digital club is launching in Fulham with tablet loan, regular weekly classes and drop-in sessions for older people.
The scheme – run by The Creighton Centre in partnership with Age UK Hammersmith & Fulham – is a chance for locals to learn new skills in a friendly environment.
As part of the new pilot programme, the charities are offering tablets for loan for the full six-week course, as well as regular drop-in sessions to hone digital skills on computers, laptops, and mobile phones.
Launching on Friday (15 September), the IT club for people aged 60+ will run each week at The Creighton Centre community venue at 378 Lillie Road, Fulham.
Local charity support
Originally opened in 1908 as Bishop Creighton House, the charity – which is financially supported by H&F Council – offers services including volunteer-run keep active sessions, mentoring and home safety assessments.
Jessica Lawn, older people's services manager at The Creighton Centre, explains: "Demand for digital skills has grown so we wanted to offer something friendly and welcoming that's a bit different from the standard digital inclusion classes.
"People with no experience can get a foot in the door and broaden their skills as part of a structured course."
Each session during the club will be focused on growing knowledge and practical digital skills, starting from the basics of switching on a device, using a charger and internet use.
The club will go on to help older people become confident in activities like booking a GP appointment, writing a letter on the tablet, and online shopping.
"We hope learning new skills can help local older people to stay independent, while enjoying being in a friendly atmosphere," adds Jessica. "We look forward to welcoming new people to our community centre."
The tablet loan group sessions will run on Fridays from 10am to 11am, followed by the IT skills drop-in club from 11am to 12 noon.
A suggested donation of £2 covers both of the sessions, and residents can bring along their own devices for tips and advice at the drop-in IT club, as well as learning new skills using the centre's laptops and tablets.
To join the tablet loan group, email homeline@creightonhouse.org or call 020 7385 9689 (option 1).
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