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Logging on to a lifelline
From the Swindon Advertiser, first published Wednesday 2nd Jul 2003.
TECH4D FEATURE: Computers can open up a new world to those who are disabled or elderly. JAMES WATSON reports on a charity which loans terminals and he speaks to some of the people who are using the scheme.
IT IS easy to feel lonely if you are elderly or disabled.
People unable to get out of the house can become isolated from the community, especially during winter months.
But a Swindon charity is using modern technology to change that.
Tech 4D, formerly known as Home Computer Training for Disabled People, has loaned internet linked computers to more than 100 disabled people and pensioners.
For many it is their only regular contact with the outside world, and with technology now meaning that people can do their shopping over the internet it will be a godsend for people with mobility problems.
But with a rapidly increasing waiting list, it needs donations of cash or computer equipment if it is to continue its good work.
The Lottery Grant it received three years ago has now come to an end, and it must find £3,000 a year to pay the rent on its offices in the Pinehurst People's Centre.
The charity was founded in 1993, and now for the first time in its ten year history it has been forced to charge people to borrow its equipment.
Everyone loaning a PC must pay £10 a year, which at a little over 80p a month still represents excellent value.
Secretary Kathleen Poynter, of Chiseldon, said: "We changed the name in December because we decided we would like our own website and the old name was too long."
Mrs Poynter, who was awarded an MBE in 1998 for her work with the WRVS, suffers from multiple sclerosis and dyslexia, and says she uses her computer virtually every day.
The charity gets many of its computers second-hand from offices which are updating their equipment. It is also able to secure cut price deals on the machines.
Training on using the equipment is given by the volunteer members of the committee, because there are no full time staff every penny raised goes towards helping people.
If you are an individual or firm able to support the charity call Mrs Poynter on Swindon 741487 or chairman Jackie Cook on Swindon 349786.
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