Finding a course where you can learn how to use computers and the internet isn’t difficult. There are many courses available and you can even find trainers who will come to your home if you find it difficult to leave your house. 

If you live in Northern Ireland, you may be interested in the computer training courses that Help the Aged runs specifically for older people. For more information contact Help the Aged in Northern Ireland on 028 9023 0666.

You may find that your local library or community centre runs courses for people who want to learn how to use a computer.  These courses may be held during the day or in the evening.  Phone your local council to ask for details of any computer courses in your area. You will find contact details in your phone book.

Age Concern branches often run taster sessions for older people to try the internet and see what it has to offer. They may also run training sessions for people who want to know more. If your local branch doesn’t run sessions itself, staff there may be able to give you the details of appropriate courses that are near your home. Look in your phone book for details of your local branch.

If you want more formal training which could lead to a recognised qualification, you could contact Learn Direct, which runs courses in local colleges. These courses may be held during the day or in the evening.  Phone free on 0800 100 900 to ask about courses in your area or visit www.learndirect.co.uk

Third Age Foundation runs courses specifically for people aged over 40 in London who are looking for work. It runs beginners’ courses as well as courses for people who are more advanced. For details of courses in London contact Third Age Foundation at:

Third Age Foundation
Britannia House
1–11 Glenthorne Road
London W6 0LH
Tel: 020 8748 9898
Web: www.thirdage.org.uk

Digital Unite provides tuition specifically for older people. A trainer will visit you in your own home at a time that suits you. 

All the trainers are older people, who will tailor their tuition to suit your needs. It may also be able to advise you about buying your own computer, local suppliers and how to get help if you have a problem. Digital Unite also run courses in sheltered housing schemes and other communities. Contact it for more details at:

Digital Unite Ltd
Unit 213,The Foundry
156 Blackfriars Road
London SE1 8EN
Tel: 0870 241 5091
Web: www.digitalunite.com