Friendly, calm support offered twice monthly for neurodiverse and disabled adults struggling with online systems
A NEW series of IT support sessions aimed at tackling digital exclusion is set to launch in Aberystwyth later this month.
CANDO, a community organisation supporting neurodiverse and disabled adults, is expanding its provision with regular sessions at the Community Room in Tesco on Park Avenue (SY23 1PB).
The sessions — which begin on March 27 — will run on the second and fourth Fridays of each month. A neurodiverse support session will be held from 10:30am to 12:30pm, followed by the IT Support Group from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
The initiative forms part of CANDO’s wider efforts to address what it describes as a growing digital divide, which is increasingly affecting access to healthcare, benefits, employment and everyday communication.
Calm, patient guidance
The IT support group is designed for anyone who feels overwhelmed by technology. Organisers say many people are struggling with tasks such as completing online forms, navigating GP or NHS systems, managing emails, joining video calls, or using smartphones, laptops and computers in general.
Rather than formal classroom teaching, the sessions will be small, friendly and supportive, offering patient one-to-one style guidance in a calm environment.
CANDO, which has been operating locally for two years, says it has seen first-hand the stress caused by the rapid shift to online services.
Jeremy Rundle, Chairman of CANDO, said:
“We see every week how stressful technology can be for people — especially when everything from GP appointments to benefits forms has moved online. This group isn’t about technical jargon. It’s about calm, patient support so people feel confident, not overwhelmed.
“Thanks to Welsh Lottery funding and the support of Connecting Carmarthenshire, we can now offer that help locally.”
Community backing
The launch of the Carmarthenshire IT Project has been made possible through funding from the Welsh Lottery, alongside a £1,000 donation from Connecting Carmarthenshire.
CANDO has also thanked The Living Well Centre in Carmarthen and Tesco Aberystwyth for their ongoing support in providing community venues for both the neurodiverse sessions and the new IT groups.
Booking essential
Places are limited to ensure sessions remain calm and manageable.
To book a place or make an enquiry, email: [email protected]
