Student@Home, a social business employing IT students to provide technology support and training to computer users and small businesses, has recently partnered with Newlon Fusion, the community regeneration partner of Newlon Housing Trust.
Student@Home is contracted to deliver up to 80 one-to-one support sessions to residents in their own homes. IT student workers will provide technology support to Newlon residents, helping them to develop basic computing skills, including accessing the internet.
Kelly Klein, founder, Student@Home, said, “By helping with digital inclusion, we provide residents with more choice, control and access to online business and consumer services. To support the initiative, we are appealing to Housing Technology’s readers for donations of broken and unwanted computers.
“Instead of these computers getting thrown out and discarded, we want to recycle them. Our team of students will give them an MOT after which they will be donated to residents. And if you are based in London we can even come and collect them.”
Viv Nichols, chief officer, Newlon Fusion, said, “This project will enhance residents’ online skills and will be launched in advance of the upcoming changes to the welfare system. We can also help residents to access services and gain IT skills that will help them get jobs. At the same time, Newlon Fusion and Student@Home will find a new home for computers with digitally-excluded residents.”
Student@Home is a membership service, allowing it to offer call-outs at rates considerably below the market average. Membership costs £24 per year and call-outs are charged at £30 for the first hour and £15 for each additional half-hour.
