Bridging the Information Divide

INCREASINGLY the world is moving online and for people without the skills to navigate the world wide web it can be a disadvantage.

Lee Watts, manager of the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre wants to help bridge the gap and teach people the skills to take the leap online.

“People in our community are missing on information or entitlements as many do not have computer skills or devices to access online,” said Mrs Watts.

“The Neighbourhood Centre works with all ages and we are aware how difficult and frustrating it can be when information cannot be accessed,” she said.

Deb Hayes-White is now more confident to go online.

“Staff at the Centre are seeing more people coming through the doors who need assistance on line, we do not want to see anyone left behind or miss out so we have partnered with the Good Things Foundation that coordinates the Be Connected Network,” she said.

“We are also keen to hear from volunteers who know their way around the online world to mentor people for an hour on a Wednesday morning,” Lee Watts said.

Deb Hayes-White, has been to the training and now feels more confident going online. 

“‘I have been watching for courses that would start at the beginning, the Be Connected program does exactly that,” said Ms Hayes-White. 

“This course has given me the confidence to try new things,” she said. 

“I was very proud that after this support I was able to set up my own tablet,” Ms Deb Hayes-White said.

• Who: People 50 years of age and older and volunteers who can be a mentor.
• What: Learn how to get online, from the most basic first steps.
• When: 9:30am – 10:30am each Wednesday.
• Where: Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre, 130 Liverpool Street, Scone.
• Cost: Free.
• Bring: Your own phone, tablet or laptop or use a device at the Centre.
• More information: Lee Watts, Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre: 02 6545 2562.