Silver Surfers board the Internet

Friday 22 May 2009

Sixteen Silver Surfers discovered the world at their fingertips when they attended a special Silver Surfers event on Friday (15 May) at in the learndirect suite at Wood Green Library.

The event, organised by Homes for Haringey and Haringey Council’s Adult Learning Service (HALS), marked National Silver Surfers Day which took place during National Adult Learning Week.

The aim of the day was to introduce people over the age of 50 to the internet in a fun and informal way. Many of those taking part had no previous experience of computers, so learning how to surf the net was a big thing for them.

The sessions involved some group work with around half an hour of one-on-one tuition for each individual.

Silver Surfers Day training taking place

Neville Giles, 69, has a laptop but needed a quick refresher session. Silver Surfers Day was ideal for him because, as an active tenants’ representative, he was keen to learn to use e-mail and how best to store information. Neville said, Being able to e-mail will help me with organising meetings and keeping in touch with people, and storing all the admin work properly will make my job much easier. Today has been really enjoyable too.”

Homes for Haringey Communications Officer, Clio Rawlings, who organised the day, said, "It was great to see residents having fun while learning a new skill, or brushing up on their existing knowledge. Being able to keep in touch and access services online is useful for everyone but particularly those in sheltered housing who may not be able to get out as much as they once did. Having the world at their fingertips like this could really improve their lives and we’re committed to helping them".

Beginners' computer training is available in all Haringey libraries. For further information, contact your nearest library.

End

Notes for editors

Homes for Haringey is the Arms Length Management Organisation managing Haringey Council’s housing stock.

It is responsible for:

  • Services to approx 21,000 council owned properties: 16,700 tenanted and 4,500 leasehold
  • Tenancy and estate management
  • Housing management of supported housing
  • Rent collection and arrears management
  • Repairs and maintenance
  • Leasehold management
  • Resident involvement
  • Meeting the Decent Homes Standard.

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