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An local innovative project helping people access the internet and computers has reached the final of a global awards competition.
CareOnLine provides computer and internet help for isolated older and disabled people and their carers so they can access information and services from their own homes. The County Council service has been nominated as a finalist in the global Stockholm Challenge 2008 - these recognise pioneering uses of information and communication technology within communities. The 145 finalists were selected from over 2,000 entries from over 50 countries with only nine coming from the UK. CareOnLine is one of 20 finalists in the Public Administration category alongside entries from India, Chile, Nigeria, China, Mexico and other countries. The awards will be presented in Sweden on May 22nd . Since CareOnLine was launched in 2001, 500 residents have received help in their own homes and 3,000 people have been given the opportunity to experience the internet through computers in sheltered housing and charity Day Centres David Sprason, the County Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: "CareOnLine illustrates how Leicestershire is thinking to the future and leading the way in reducing social isolation for some of our most vulnerable citizens. "We aim to improve the lives of older people, disabled people and carers who feel isolated or find it difficult to access information and services." For more information about CareOnLine, visit www.leicscareonline.org.uk or call Ian Retson on 0116 305 7352 |
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