Latest News
2012
Affordable computer offer will help Havebury tenants get online
The wonders of the world wide web are set to be enjoyed by more Havebury tenants, thanks to an affordable computer scheme.
Havebury has joined Race Online 2012, a social change organisation which aims to make the UK the first nation in the world where everyone can use the web. Currently, 8.4 million people in the country have never used the internet – the same as the population of the UK’s five biggest cities.
Through the partnership, Havebury’s 6,000 tenants are now able to buy refurbished computers or laptops for under £200. This will give them access to the internet as well as software packages for documents, emails, messaging, pictures and videos.
Havebury Chief Executive Karen Mayhew said: “These computers can help people enjoy all the web has to offer for a fraction of the price of a new model. They are ready to be used the moment they are plugged in, so people will not need to worry about installing any software.
“The internet is a huge part of modern life, so we’re very pleased that our partnership with Race Online means our tenants will have an opportunity to benefit in 2012.”
She added that tenants can add a Pay as You Go broadband dongle for a small extra cost, or sign up to monthly contracts with a number of providers.
There are two ways that Havebury tenants can buy a computer – through Get Online @ Home on 03719 100 100 or www.getonlineathome.org or through Remploy on 08450 268293 or www.ecycleonline.co.uk. Cash payments can be made using Payzone.
Mrs Mayhew added: “We appreciate that many tenants who buy a computer for the first time may not know how best to use it. We have therefore arranged a number of sessions over the coming months which will help them learn basic skills.”
Tenants can take part in one hour sessions on Thursday, February 2 at Havebury House in Bury St Edmunds. How to Create a Letter starts at 10am and 1pm, with How to Stay Safe Online taking place at 11.15am and 2.15pm. In March, participants will learn how to create a spreadsheet and introduce themselves to social networking. In April, the sessions will outline how to create a presentation and how to use e-mail. Tenants should book a place at 0300 3300 900.
Connie Curtis, Betty Rose and Doug Wallis from Redwood Gardens, a supported accommodation scheme in Bury St Edmunds, attended the January session, How to Use a Computer. The session was run by Stronger Communities Advisor Sarah-Jane Hatt, Customer Advisor Lauren Porter and Neighbourhood Advisor Kirsten Francis.
Mrs Curtis, 88, explained: “I wanted to learn how to use a computer to keep my brain active, plus my son was trying to convince me to buy a laptop. I was very nervous before the session but Lauren was very patient. I will definitely go to another one.”
Mrs Rose, also 88, added: “I’m really looking forward to using the computer at Redwood – it’s a shame we can’t all use it at the same time!"
