Silver surfers

12.54.34pm GMT Sun 22nd Nov 2009

• THE worldwide web is being brought to the fingertips of users of Twickenham Intensive Day Care Centre, after a new broadband service was installed - the first time one of the Council run centres has provided internet access and training.

Service users, many of who are older, disabled or have sensory impairments, can use the new laptop at any point during their visit and will receive support from volunteers to get used to the technology and navigate the web.

Cllr Denise Carr, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing on Richmond Council, said: "This is a fantastic idea and in the couple of weeks it has been up and running it has proved extremely popular. People are looking at historical sites, places they've travelled to or are using music and art programmes. We are looking into setting up email accounts so they can send regular messages to their families.

"One of our main aims is to help older people live as independently as possible. This means getting them to try new things and make the most of opportunities to socialise and take part in activities. The laptop certainly enables them to do this, and we will see how we can expand the service at other venues in the future."

Twickenham Intensive Day Care Centre is used by anyone over the age of 60 with a physical disability and/or sensory impairment and a high level of care need.

Related Link:

• The borough's intensive day centres