KCOM connects east Hull community with new IT suite

St Stephen’s Neighbourhood Centre, in Annandale Road, Greatfield, has launched its new Learning Zone facility which will run computer skills session for adults and gaming social clubs for kids.

The Learning Zone has recently been fitted with six high-spec PCs, monitors and Lightstream broadband by Hull communications company KCOM in a bid to increase digital inclusion in the area.

KCOM was initially approached by Marfleet ward councillor and former Lord Mayor Sean Chaytor to install an IT suite at St Stephen’s Neighbourhood Centre as part of a plan to help local residents get online.

Cllr Chaytor said: “We are delighted that our community has a new IT suite for the use of residents of Marfleet Ward, and of Greatfield in particular, thanks to our local telecommunications provider, KCOM, in conjunction with St Stephen’s Neighbourhood Centre.

“The need for an IT suite to serve the needs of local residents, in particular those seeking employment, education and benefits together with the health and family services that the internet provides, is vital to many that do not have computers at home - especially those that need a computer to apply for jobs, benefits and health appointments.

“This is proof of what a partnership between KCOM, local councillors and the local community can deliver for our residents.”

As well as running multi-player Minecraft games for Greatfield youngsters, the centre also holds introductory sessions for older computer users on using software such as email and Skype.

Diane Thompson, St Stephen’s treasurer, said: “We feel really lucky to have had the support of KCOM, our local councillors Sean Chaytor and Rosemary Pantelakis and neighbourhood coordinator Su Guy to replace our ageing IT with these new PCs.

“We now have the capability to help our youth club members finish homework and learn about internet security. Our older youth club members use the PCs for gaming.

“We also want local residents to brush up on their computer skills, learn how to Skype, make doctor’s appointments or job search. If local residents want to use the PCs then please contact us to book in some time or, if the door is open, come in. We have a job club and a computer skills course available already so if people want to join either they are more than welcome.”

Brendon Smurthwaite, KCOM community coordinator, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to help this excellent community centre continue its work to tackle digital exclusion and bringing the benefits of the internet to more people in Greatfield.

“The six PCs we have supplied combined with our ultrafast Lightstream broadband mean guests at St Stephen’s will be able to expand their horizons online – whether that’s through creating new worlds on Minecraft or by brushing up their CVs and learning new IT skills.”

For more details about St Stephen’s Neighbourhood Centre visit www.ssnc.org.uk To learn more about what KCOM does in the community visit www.kcomhome.com/community