Older People Online

KWMC aims to create a sustainable online network for older people through a range of digital activities. This will involve delivering digital workshops at sheltered housing schemes in Knowle West and furthering our related work across the city, such as supporting the development of local community websites, the Silverscreen film club, weekly computer training sessions and the University of Local Knowledge project, which aims to share the knowledge and skills of the local community.

Why they need our service

According to statistics provided by the Race Online 2012 initiative, 39% of the 9 million UK adults who have never used the internet are aged 65+. Use of technology is low in Knowle West and we have worked with older people in other KWMC projects and have been asked to explore ways of working with individuals isolated from families, services and leisure activities. Having attended meetings of Bristol Older People's Forum, we are aware of the need for support for community websites and training.

Plan and expected results

This project aims to support older people in developing their digital literacy skills and encourage them to use new media - and other platforms - to share their skills and knowledge with others. We hope this will result in improved confidence, reduced isolation and increased involvement within the community. Initiatives with an intergenerational element, such as the University of Local Knowledge, will encourage respect and dialogue between groups that may be unlikely to interact.

Latest activities and projects

Older People Online

KWMC aims to create a sustainable online network for older people through a range of digital activities. This will involve delivering digital workshops at sheltered housing schemes in Knowle West and furthering our related work across the city, such as supporting the development of local community websites, the Silverscreen film club, weekly computer training sessions and the University of Local Knowledge project, which aims to share the knowledge and skills of the local community. read more

Imagination Station: KWMC Youth Programme

'The Drop-in Homework Club' gives young people a supportive environment in which to work together after school. 'Digital journalists - Voices of the South' use a range of media platforms to explore the issues that matter to them and young photographers' group undertake commissions while receiving fun informal training. Award-winning filmmakers 'Digital Fish' produce short films and animations, while 'Music and Lyrics' supports young people in producing music and writing songs. read more