CASH BOOST FOR NEW SALFORD COMPUTER CLUB

The newly-formed St James Computer Club in Higher Broughton has been given £800 from Salix Homes as part of its Springboard fund, to help get the project off the ground.

The cash-injection has enabled the club to provide a safe and social environment where local people can access computers, learn new skills, renew social networks and reconnect with their community.

The grant has been used to purchase two laptop computers, software packages and a printer, which has enabled the club to open its doors for the first time and offer a free computer training course for the over 50s.

Rev Christine Threlfall, who runs the initiative, said:

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“For many who come to the club, it’s more than just learning new skills, it’s a chance to socialise and get to know others in the community. Thanks to this donation from Salix Homes, we have been able to kick-start the club which is now a registered online access centre.”

The computer club runs every Friday between 1pm and 3pm at St James Church and the friendly volunteers welcome people who are socially isolated, struggling to access services or just simply want to learn new skills.

Betty Herring, who lives in one of Salix Homes’ sheltered housing schemes, said:

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“I have a huge family with 22 grandchildren and it’s very important to me that I can keep in touch with them and stay involved in their lives. The computer club helps me stay connected through sharing videos and photos.”

Maureen Kynaston, who also attends the computer club, said:

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“I have a disability so standing around in queues at checkouts and carrying heavy shopping can be difficult for me. I would like to learn how to shop online, but I wouldn’t be able to learn how without the help of the computer club.”

Volunteers at the club have completed training to deliver digital inclusion sessions and share their expertise to help people learn new skills and build confidence.

The Springboard fund provides financial assistance to local groups and initiatives that are making a difference in Salford. Since its launch the fund has donated more than £50,000 to local causes, including a lunch club that also runs at St James Church, providing a free hot meal and companionship to anyone who calls by.Ben Cruickshanks, Broughton neighbourhood manager at Salix Homes, said:

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“We are very proud to support another fantastic initiative run by St James which will encourage, empower and assist local people to learn crucial skills that will make a difference to their lives.” 

 

 

To apply for a Springboard grant go to the Salix Homes website.