Mobile Computer Gym brings ICT to West Ham and Plaistow
People in Newham are enjoying a mental workout thanks to
a mobile computer gym that is travelling around the West Ham
and Plaistow New Deal for Communities (NDC) area offering
free training in essential ICT skills.
The Computer Gym is a mobile ICT training centre born out
of the desire to bridge the gap between those who have access
to ICT and those who do not. It offers a relaxed, fun and
non-threatening learning environment that encourages less
confident users to join in and learn the skills that are essential
in today's workplace.
The purpose built mobile training vehicles are fully equipped with
multi-media computers, digital equipment, printers, scanners and
networked Internet access. Both adults and children can get on board
and take advantage of a range of opportunities, from taster courses
in basic computer skills to surfing the Internet, job search and
advice tools.
Clive Ward, one of the trainers, says:
'We get people of all ages and ability coming on board.
The majority of adults are first time users and we take them
step-by-step through the basics. At the end of a 12-week course
their workout will have provided them with the basic skills
to use a computer. Some people start at a higher level and
go on to take internationally recognised certificates such
as the European Computer Driving Licence. I am always delighted
when someone who has been using the gym shows real improvements
in their confidence, or goes on to find employment'.
Funding comes from the UK Online Capital Modernisation Fund (£118,000),
from West Ham and Plaistow NDC (£120,000), East Thames Housing
Group and the Forest Gate single regeneration budget. The NDC grant
is approved by Government Office for London who take into consideration
when approving funding the impact the project will have on the lives
of the people in the local community. The long-term aim of NDC funding
is to close the gap between the poorest neighbourhoods and the rest
of the country.
As well as training over 475 children and adults in a six-month
period the Computer Gym also offers other services. After
school computer clubs are being run; links to the ELITE employment
scheme have been established by providing referrals along
with training; residents are being given the opportunity to
develop an NDC Community website and hard-up schools in the
area can access state-of-the-art ITC equipment.
This project shows how different strands of Government funding,
many coming through Government Office for London, can be brought
together to fund an exciting, innovative project aimed at
helping communities help themselves.
