North Lanarkshire Provost Kenneth Duffy visited a group of elderly tenants in Kerr Grieve Court Retirement Complex in Motherwell to see how they are taking advantage of their new digital skills.
The visit was part of North Lanarkshire Council’s Driving Digital Locally Intergenerational Project which brings together pupils from Glencairn Primary School and tenants in the complex to educate older residents about digital technology through one-to-one training with young people.
The programme begins with seniors engaging in lively discussions with pupils on topics ranging from childhood memories to favourite songs.
Then the pupils teach the tenants basic digital skills, if they have never used an iPad before, or to use the technology in ways they have not tried before.
The tenants have embraced their new digital skills. From staying connected with loved ones to exploring new hobbies online, they are making the most of the digital world.
Primary six and seven pupils from Glencairn Primary were Billy Sneddon, Ethan Devlin, Anna Downie, Logan Adie, Katie Lawson, Zoya Siddique, Romana Ramzan, Hudson Kelly, Giuliana Brown, Lily Taylor and Olivia Irwin.
Romana said: “I enjoyed helping everyone and seeing them happy.”
Giuliana added: “It was very fun teaching the residents how to do digital things and speaking with them.”
Glencairn Primary class teacher, Jasmine Chand said: “The Intergenerational Project was a fantastic experience for our learners. The children enjoyed building relationships with the residents of Kerr Grieve and sharing their digital skills.
“The children were fantastic ambassadors of our school. It was the highlight of our week!”
Provost Duffy said: “We are delighted to see our elderly tenants thriving with their new digital skills.
“This project has not only empowered them but also strengthened the bonds within our community. As a result, our senior residents are now more connected and engaged with the digital world, enhancing their quality of life.”
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