Social landlord Peak Valley Housing Association is encouraging its residents to take advantage of the Government’s Home Access scheme which has recently been launched.
The scheme provides low income families with grants to purchase a computer, get a least a year’s home broadband or both. “The scheme which is primarily aimed at ensuring school age children have full use of the Internet will also help low income families access training,” said Phil Corris Managing Director of Peak Valley Housing Association
“It is widely accepted that many people living in social housing do not have access to the Internet and all the benefits that it can offer. Naturally school children will gain a lot from having this service at home, but we believe that their parents will also be able to enjoy more benefits including access to training and employment opportunities.
“Even having access to government and information websites, money saving information and price comparison sites could make a huge difference to somebody on a low income.”
Families receiving income support or unemployment benefits will be able to apply for a Home Access grant which they can use to purchase a computer or broadband package from an approved supplier. At launch only families with children aged 7-14, in school years 3-9, will be eligible, but the programme is aiming to work towards universal home access for all school age children by 2011. However, Peak Valley say that if you are unsure on whether or not you qualify it is best to ask for full details of eligibility to ensure you don’t miss out.
As an extension to the Home Access scheme the Government has just announced that nearly 20,000 people living in sheltered housing will be switched on to the internet with the introduction of a new Get Digital programme designed to help silver sufers get Internet savvy. The scheme will provide residents with access to computers and the training they need to make the most of the new technology on offer.
“With around 10 million people in the UK never having used the Internet – and many of these socially excluded or over the age of 65, we welcome these measures which will expand access to the Internet,” said Phil Corris. “Peak Valley and other local service providers already provide Internet training opportunities for residents in this area and we will be looking to develop more for people who want help and advice on using their new computers and accessing all the web has to offer.”
Government funding for the Home Access scheme is available for around 270,000 households and you can apply by calling 0333 200 1004 for an application form.
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