Useful links...
Tips to Getting Online
By Verity Gill & Uk online centres
We are all told that the internet has opened up a world of opportunities, communities and information, but that is assuming that everyone can get regular access to it!
If you have found grannynet.co.uk by using a friend or relative's computer, are relatively new to the internet or know someone who doesn't have access to the internet in their home, we have got together with UK online centres to bring you some helpful tips ranging from getting online to learning more about making the most of internet access.
How the internet can help you ...
You can use computers and the internet to do your grocery shopping, keep in touch with family and friends, book a holiday and look up all sorts of information - from football results to weather forecasts, celebrity gossip to family health. Unlike shops and banks, the internet is never closed. So you can get whatever you need, or get in touch with whoever you like, whenever it suits you. The internet can also help you to save money as you can use it to compare prices and get the best deals on anything from gas and electricity to new cars and holidays. Lots of companies offer extra discounts if you buy online.
More about UK online centres...
UK online centres is an organisation set up to provide people with access to computers and the internet, as well as advice on using them. Millions of people find that using computers and the internet makes their lives better and easier. There are UK online centres across England staffed by people who can give you support as you need it. It doesn't matter who you are, if you've never been near a computer or the internet before, or even if you're unsure about the whole thing - they're there to help.
Who can UK online centres help?
Take a look at the following case study to get an idea of how UK online centres can help you make the most of the internet, like they have so many others.
Grandmother and net-newcomer Sylvia Lloyd has been going along to her local UK online centre in Barnsley for 12 months, and has learned that, with the right advice and support, the world wide web is not such a scary place to wander:
"My grandson, Ellis, is three and already takes to computers like a duck to water. I thought it was about time I caught up! But like most people, I suppose, I was fairly apprehensive when I first started using the internet. You hear all these horror stories about identity theft and fraud and things on the news, and it makes you nervous. I used to worry every time I typed anything, even my name, let alone my bank details. I've been me for 63 years and I'm certainly not ready for someone to steal my identity!"
"But since I've been coming to the UK online centre, I've learned that there are simple steps you can take to make sure that doesn't happen. Once you're aware of the dangers and how to avoid them, computers and the internet stop being scary and start being useful, and can even be fun!"
"I always say, you're never too old to learn - I think it's important to find the time to gain new skills. The tutors here are fantastic and so supportive - and they've made me realise just how valuable the internet can be. Now I shop and pay my bills online, and since I've found out about price-comparison sites I've learned how to get the best deals and search for bargain goodies for my kids and grandkids."
For more on this case study and many others please click on the following link... ukonlinecentres.com
Getting online ...
To find your nearest UK online centre call free on 0800 77 1234. Then, once you have found a centre, log on to www.myguide.gov.uk to find a range of courses designed to suit you.
.- DON'T let a lack of confidence stop you. You can only learn more!
- DO try and get a friend to come along with you - its always more fun to share a new experience.
- DO challenge yourself on the internet, how much can it save you in time and money?
- DO call UK online centres if you need any help at all.