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Over 55s invited to log onto latest technology

People aged over 55 who are interested in learning about technologies like computers and mobile phones can attend a special taster session in Birmingham this week.

The class is open to anyone aged over 55 in the city but particularly aimed at people who may have been put off from using new technology because of a mobility issue such as arthritis.

It will be held at Ghulab Ashram housing scheme in Hall Green from 11am to 3pm this Wednesday (21st) and will be run by Taste for Life Birmingham, a free support service managed by Ashram and Moseley and District housing associations.

Experts from the Taste for Life Birmingham team will be on hand to teach people about texting, computers and adaptations to make using technologies easier.

The event is part of an annual campaign run by Age UK called ‘itea and biscuit’ and aims to introduce technology to people in later life.

Technology can offer older people numerous benefits, from using mobile phones and the internet to keep in contact with loved ones more easily, to using digital cameras to capture those important moments in life.

Roxanne Moseley, Taste for Life Birmingham Support Manager, said: “It’s never too late to learn something new which is why we wanted to support Age UK’s itea and biscuit event.

“Everyone is welcome to come along to our IT taster session, whether you have little or no experience of technology. We will be on hand to support you and guide you through everything from texting to surfing the internet.”

Heléna Herklots, Services Director at Age UK, said: “Age UK runs ‘itea and biscuits week’ to help older people try out new technology, in many cases for the first time.

“This year as well as encouraging older people to attend events, we are asking ordinary people who know how to use technology to become Digital Champions by passing on their knowledge of mobile phones, the Internet, ipads and anything else to older people they know.”

Taste for Life Birmingham is free of charge to anyone living in the south and west of Birmingham aged over 55. To sign up for the service, or to book a visit from a Taste for Life Birmingham advisor, call 0121 764 3879.