New project helps older people catch up with new tech

A college scheme which encourages students to bond with older people over new technology has netted a cash boost.

As part of the Big Lottery Fund’s Investing in Ideas programme, Perth College has received £4,000 for its pilot Digital Ninjas scheme.

The project will see young volunteers paired with older people in the community in order to offer advice or training in the use of digital technology.

The idea is to eliminate feelings of digital exclusion and boost confidence.

Meanwhile, Rural Housing Scotland has been awarded a £10,000 grant for a series of new projects across areas including Blackhaugh Farm and Tombreck.

The money will allow small community groups to fully research prospective home ownership in an effort to reduce homeless and poor housing conditions.

Perthshire North MSP John Swinney welcomed the £14,000 investment.

“Yet more hardworking groups, with innovative ideas, will now have the opportunity to test their ideas as a result of this funding,” he said. “Rural housing and home ownership is obviously a matter of real importance to people in this area.

“I hope the studies undertaken by Tombreck and Blackhaugh Farm’s community groups can lead to some positive action in the future to help ensure people living in rural areas can do so in good quality, affordable accommodation.”

Mr Swinney added: “Perth College’s Digital Ninja is another excellent initiative and one that I hope will benefit everyone involved.”