A TOTAL of 48 local individuals will develop their IT skills due to a series of computer classes that are currently being delivered by Inspire Wellbeing following a £9,200 funding injection from The Gallaher Trust.
With a mission to support people living with mental ill health, intellectual disability, autism and addictions to reach their fullest potential, the funding from the Trust helped to establish an IT suite within the Woodvale Community Wellbeing Service, with a total of eight computers. A series of eight classes are running until December this year and already, 33 individuals have completed the course and received a certification.
Speaking about the project, Danielle Sheridan at Inspire Wellbeing said: “In today’s digitally focussed society, having strong IT skills is no longer a nice to have, it’s essential. For many of the people we support, gaining confidence online can be life-changing, whether that’s applying for jobs, staying safe online or simply keeping in touch with friends and family.
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“Thanks to the Trust’s generous support, we have been able to create a state-of-the-art IT suite as part of the refurbishment project at Woodvale Community Hub, delivering structured training sessions that build practical skills, confidence and self-belief. We’re already seeing a huge difference in our participants and we’re looking forward to the remainder of this project where we’ll hopefully make an even greater impact on those living in the Ballymena area.”
Focussed on supporting projects that create jobs, develop skills and assist disadvantaged adults, The Gallaher Trust has committed £3.1 million to delivery partner programmes since its inception in 2017. During this time, these projects have helped create 505 new jobs, upskill over 1,800 adults and provide support to over 2,600 disadvantaged adults.
James Perry MBE, a Trustee at The Gallaher Trust says that supporting initiatives that develop skills and create real-life opportunities is vital to the progression of not only individuals, but the local business economy.
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“Having access to skills training really can transform someone’s life,” James commented. “Digital literacy in particular, is critical in today’s economy and we’re proud to support a project that is equipping local people with the capabilities they need in the future.
“Seeing the positive results that this programme has achieved already is very encouraging and we’ve no doubt that it will continue to influence real change for disadvantaged adults in the area.”
For further information on The Gallaher Trust and the projects it supports, visit the website: www.thegallahertrust.org.
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