New computer courses aimed at older generation

Launching the new computer courses at the Fishersgate Centre, left to right, Cllr Jim Funnell, Cllr Dave Donaldson, Fishersgate Community Association chairman Peter Averillo, Adur Council chairman Mike Mendoza and Cllr Julie Searle

Adur councillors were invited along to the West Road site on Thursday to find out more about the new UK Online Centre that has been set up there.

Peter Averillo, chairman of Fishersgate Community Association, said they were using the UK Online Centre courses to encourage the over-50s to go along and use the computers.

He said they had put up a display in the meeting room about the wide range of training courses available.

As well as help for the older generation, the Fishergate Online Centre offers computer-based training for all residents, traders and firms.

It is currently open on a drop-in basis, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9.30am to 4pm. People are asked to make a £2 donation.

Adur Council chairman Mike Mendoza, who was one of those attending the launch, said: “This is a brilliant way for those who cannot afford to, or do not have the technical knowledge to get on to the internet, to learn basic computer usage.

“The Fishersgate Centre is fast becoming a core hub for the area. With some more funding, they can open their door to more people on more days.”

Also attending were Southwick Green ward councillor Julie Searle and Eastbrook ward councillors Jim Funnell and David Donaldson.

There are 3,800 UK Online Centres across England, helping people get online easily.

A spokesman said: “There are eight million people in the UK who don’t use the internet, and are missing out on all sorts of benefits and conveniences as a result.”