UK online centres awards 2008 – Yorkshire winners

Awards let stars shine

The UK online centres Awards Ceremony took place on 24 June 2008 at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London. The Awards recognised both people who’ve overcome barriers to get to grips with technology and change their lives, and the people who’ve helped them along the way.

Twenty-seven winners in five categories were whittled down from hundreds of nominations by a judging panel including representatives from Intel, Ofcom, Becta and the Learning and Skills Council. They commended top UK online centres, outstanding outreach projects, the best support staff and users who had overcome barriers and used technology to make some amazing achievements and major changes to their lives.

UK online centres staff, volunteers and visitors gathered together with stakeholders in digital inclusion, technology and skills for the special Ceremony. The 150 strong audience heard speeches from new Digital Inclusion Minister Paul Murphy MP, and GMTV’s Andrea McLean, who handed out the Awards.

Andrea McLean and Paul Murphy MP

Speaking at the Ceremony, Andrea said: “Today we celebrated the personal achievements and milestones of some amazing individuals, and the very dedicated people who have supported them. Ordinary people doing extraordinary things deserve recognition, and that’s what the UK online centres Awards were all about. I’ve met some really inspirational people, and I’m delighted to have been here to share their day.”

Closing the proceedings, Paul Murphy MP congratulated all the winner on their achievements and hard work. He added: “Computers and the internet can open up whole new worlds, and getting the skills and support to use them at places like UK online centres really can change lives for the better. For some people here today learning about technology hasn’t just been useful, it’s been a lifeline, and for me it’s been further proof digital inclusion is now a necessity rather than an option. It’s been a privilege to be here and see digital inclusion delivery and support at its very best. The dedication, hard work and achievements of all today’s winners are certainly worthy of reward.”

Yorkshire and Humber boasted 3 award winners including one overall winner:

Outstanding Centre Award Overall Winner: Age Concern Bradford and District

Age Concern Bradford specialise in working with the over 50s, and has an army of volunteer tutors working in the central Bradford centre, in satellite Age Concern centres, out at community venues and even directly in the homes of housebound clients. Their focus is very much on how technology can enhance lives, from online shopping to simple emailing, local and central government services to an online community portal where older people can share thoughts, post information and keep in touch.

 

 

Age Concern Bradford

 

 

 

 

Outstanding Centre Award: Paddock Learning Centre
The Paddock Learning Centre in Huddersfield offers a range of training and learning opportunities to a diverse audience, targeting older people, those out of work, people with physical or mental disabilities and those without English as a first language. More than 300 people a year come through the doors for classes
or open access drop-in sessions. Their partnerships within the community and personal commitment to each customer make them a real flagship for the UK online centres network.

Inspirational Story Award: Catherine Atack, Age Concern Leeds

Catherine was a young teacher when her life was overtaken by Multiple Sclerosis. As the illness progressed she ended up back home being cared for by her mother, becoming increasingly dependent on her help. When her mother died not long ago, Catherine, 72, was left devastated and at a complete loss. She was introduced to the UK online centre at Age Concern Leeds by the Age Concern Mental Health Team. Although despondent and nervous at first, with the help of adaptive equipment and the support of her tutor in her own home, Catherine is a new woman. She’s made new friends, found new interests, and her perseverance and personality have impressed both the centre and fellow learners.

Catherine says: “When people talked about computers, I couldn’t imagine what on earth people saw in them. Now, because I know how to use them, my life is so busy. I hardly ever watch TV because there’s so much I can do on the computer. I think it’s wonderful, and it really has opened up a whole new world to me.”