A Silver Surfers’ Scheme introducing sheltered housing residents to the Internet is proving to be a real hit across Southampton.

The first seven sheltered housing courts in a city-wide scheme have welcomed computers and broadband, complete with a 12 week training programme on using their new computers and getting the most out of the Internet.

The scheme was set up by Southampton City Council to help sheltered housing tenants with shopping and getting information. Since its introduction in Neptune Court, the scheme has gone from strength to strength.

The computers are in the community lounges, and anyone over 55 in the surrounding area is welcome to complete the training and use them.Residents are discovering that there is much more to the Internet than they realised, with email, bargain shopping online and even digital photography.

Residents with relatives living abroad can now email them. Some have seen grandchildren for the first time online, or even been able to afford a plane ticket to see them through Internet-based budget airlines. Google Earth is proving to be a favourite with ex-merchant seamen for looking at the places they have been.

For some people, this introduction to the Internet has impressed them so much that they have invested in their own computers and broadband connections. Michael Auckland took up the training course when the computers were introduced in Pleasant View: “I didn’t hold out much hope of getting the hang of the computers when I started, but I really wanted to have a go. Since doing the training, I’ve bought myself a laptop, and I email my brother in Australia every other day.

“It’s a fantastic change to just making the odd phone call. My wife and I book holidays online now, and I put our photos and videos onto DVD. Being able to use the internet really has changed out lives.”

STARSS (Southampton Tenants and Residents Silver Surfers) has been set up to encourage other residents to take up the training and use the computers. STARSS also applies for funding to pay for things like printer cartridges and paper.

Debbie Cotton, who organises and runs the scheme, said: “Not everyone was sure about the computers when they were first set up, but as word goes around people’s curiosity outweighs their wariness and they often become keen to see what’s on offer.

Tony, a resident at one court, greeted the computers with a definite ‘You’ll never get me on those things.’ He now has his own laptop and broadband connection, and uses it for shopping and looking on Google Earth and maps!

“Introducing seniors to the Internet is about being able to give people the opportunity to widen their world from their four walls- because for some people that’s all they’ve got. The most rewarding part is helping people to stay in touch with their families and friends in ways they didn’t know were possible.”

Look out for training coming to a court near you, or phone Debbie Cotton on 07909 996756 or email Debbie.Cotton@southampton.gov.uk.