Donated Technology
for UK Charities
Age UK in search for internet champions
Written by Matthew Carter
Online charity communications seems to be a top priority at Age UK at the moment, as the organisation has launched a search for a couple of over-55s to act as internet champions for their peers.
The group is calling on those in this demographic who believe their web skills to be at a competent-enough level so as to be able to teach others of the benefits to be had from computer literacy.
Two individuals are being sought - each of whom will be dubbed an Internet Champion of the Year - and the duo will act as examples to the 5.7 million older people who have never surfed the world wide web and are therefore missing out on the advantages such an important service brings.
How The Internet Changed My Life is the theme for this year's drive and it is likely to feature examples of ways in which the net has been used by older individuals to fulfil a number of achievements they would not have had the opportunity to without the help of computers.
These include keeping in touch with grandchildren, saving money via online purchases and taking part in newly-discovered activities and hobbies.
Such a scheme provides an example of how Age UK is embracing technology for charities and could encourage other good causes to follow suit.
David Mortimer, head of digital inclusion at the group, said: "Age UK is committed to helping older people access the advantages of using the internet for themselves."
The industry figure explained the divide between web users and non-users remains vast, with more than 5.7 million yet to enjoy the pleasure to be had through the digital world.
He added: "Through the Age UK Internet Champion of the Year search we are showcasing real stories to inspire others to make the most of all the internet has to offer."
Those keen to put themselves forward for the honour are required to share with others the ways in which being hooked up to cyberspace has improved their everyday lives for the better.
In addition, they will need to tell the charity how they would like to work with the organisation and share their experiences and skills in this field.
Martha Lane Fox, UK Digital Champion, has encouraged anyone over the age of 55 who is passionate about the world wide web and the benefits it can bring to put their names forward for the scheme.
The industry figure explained: "I have been incredibly fortunate in my role as UK Digital Champion to meet so many inspiring people whose lives have literally been transformed by the internet."
She noted it is vital that peer-to-peer training in this manner is implemented on a wide scale if more people are to learn of the advantages available to the internet that can change the lives of millions of individuals for the better.
It is not the first time Age UK has demonstrated notable efforts through not for profit websites, as the organisation recently promoted internet take-up among over-65s as part of its Itea for Biscuits Week, which sought to show the older generations are just as capable as their younger counterparts at using modern technology.
Online charity communications seems to be a top priority at Age UK at the moment, as the organisation has launched a search for a couple of over-55s to act as internet champions for their peers.
The group is calling on those in this demographic who believe their web skills to be at a competent-enough level so as to be able to teach others of the benefits to be had from computer literacy.
Two individuals are being sought - each of whom will be dubbed an Internet Champion of the Year - and the duo will act as examples to the 5.7 million older people who have never surfed the world wide web and are therefore missing out on the advantages such an important service brings.
How The Internet Changed My Life is the theme for this year's drive and it is likely to feature examples of ways in which the net has been used by older individuals to fulfil a number of achievements they would not have had the opportunity to without the help of computers.
These include keeping in touch with grandchildren, saving money via online purchases and taking part in newly-discovered activities and hobbies.
Such a scheme provides an example of how Age UK is embracing technology for charities and could encourage other good causes to follow suit.
David Mortimer, head of digital inclusion at the group, said: "Age UK is committed to helping older people access the advantages of using the internet for themselves."
The industry figure explained the divide between web users and non-users remains vast, with more than 5.7 million yet to enjoy the pleasure to be had through the digital world.
He added: "Through the Age UK Internet Champion of the Year search we are showcasing real stories to inspire others to make the most of all the internet has to offer."
Those keen to put themselves forward for the honour are required to share with others the ways in which being hooked up to cyberspace has improved their everyday lives for the better.
In addition, they will need to tell the charity how they would like to work with the organisation and share their experiences and skills in this field.
Martha Lane Fox, UK Digital Champion, has encouraged anyone over the age of 55 who is passionate about the world wide web and the benefits it can bring to put their names forward for the scheme.
The industry figure explained: "I have been incredibly fortunate in my role as UK Digital Champion to meet so many inspiring people whose lives have literally been transformed by the internet."
She noted it is vital that peer-to-peer training in this manner is implemented on a wide scale if more people are to learn of the advantages available to the internet that can change the lives of millions of individuals for the better.
It is not the first time Age UK has demonstrated notable efforts through not for profit websites, as the organisation recently promoted internet take-up among over-65s as part of its Itea for Biscuits Week, which sought to show the older generations are just as capable as their younger counterparts at using modern technology.
