Learn computing in the ‘third age’ The Star Letter writer wins a Computeractive mug! Views expressed don’t necessarily reflect those of Computeractive

Following previous letters about computing groups, I thought it would be worth mentioning the various

CA says We agree with Harry that U3A does a great job teaching computing skills to older people (or ‘third agers’). You’ll find more ways to learn about technology in your area on page 59. Pat Duckworth is right to say that older people tend to have more patience when teaching others about computing (Letters, Issue 519). As a retiree with too much time on my hands, I joined a few computing clubs. I was made to feel very welcome by the people there, who were all getting on a bit too. It felt like they wanted the same things from a computer as I did, and they came from the same generation as me. It helped them to speak my language.

In contrast, when I’ve asked my younger relatives for help, they often get frustrated that I don’t understand what they’re talking about. They are always enthusiastic, but I sense they get fed up having to explain the same thing to me over and over again. Sometimes you have to learn at a slower pace to fully grasp it.

AYes, Robert is entirely correct, leaving us once again frustrated that companies don’t even know the basics of consumer law. Robert’s contract is with Ebuyer (the retailer), not Seagate (the manufacturer). The length of Ebuyer’s warranty is irrelevant when a product is inherently faulty. Under the Consumer Rights Act, customers have six years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (five in Scotland) to return faulty items. Within the first six months customers don’t have to prove the fault is inherent, though companies are allowed to test it before refunding the customer, replacing the item, or repairing it.

Ebuyer didn’t take responsibility initially when Robert complained about the problem after four months. So although he’s now outside the initial six months, the law is still on his side. Ebuyer will have to prove that the fault’s not inherent. If Ebuyer doesn’t help, Robert could take the company to court, using the proof provided by the Seagate tool.