David in explanation mode…..

We were pleased to welcome the Mayor of St Albans Cllr Anthony Rowlands accompanied by his Lady Mayoress Annie Stevenson to our regular Thursday DropIn at Marshalswick Baptist Free Church – not just to visit but to get help and advice!

Anthony:

‘I was delighted to visit one of Computer Friendly drop-in sessions along with the Mayoress, Annie Stevenson.  As someone who would regularly score a low  B- in any IT test, I know all too well how frustration can set in when digital confusion strikes.

Three cheers, then, for Computer Friendly who provide essential support to those of us who have not learned some of the basic competencies through the world of work or are regularly  baffled. They are a lifeline for so many in a world where living without basic IT skills is becoming harder.’

Annie:

Computer Friendly provides a vital service to prevent the social exclusion of older people who have lived through the digital revolution later in life, having been forced to adjust to a computerised world that was unknown in their formative years. Sadly, through the lens of age discrimination, older people’s worlds can become smaller and it is vital they are empowered and stay connected to their communities plus having all the benefits of being comfortable with technology that younger people enjoy. Even more important with the cost of living crisis. 

 It is not just a social issue, it’s a fundamental health issue as increasingly it is impossible to access essential services without going online. The digital divide  increases loneliness and isolation, the scourge of our society that the Mayor’s theme is highlighting. Computer Friendly is an essential service for older people to prevent decline in their physical and mental health and quality of life. We are so fortunate to have them in our district.