In conclusion...

Homelessness and IT? Why do people who are homeless need a computer?

Before starting work with iT4C I ran a project based in The Big Issue in Brighton which gave homeless people in Brighton and Hove the opportunity to use the Internet and computers.

Time and time again I would be asked the question "Why do people who are homeless need a computer?" as if it was a fish and a bicycle question.

It seemed simple to me - we live in a world which has an increasing digital divide, and many people in disadvantaged positions are being excluded from the information age, homeless people are one such excluded group.

The homeless clients I worked with welcomed the opportunity to keep in touch with friends and family via email, to use online government forms, to find out information about their health and, for some, to access high quality and confidential support around their substance misuse.

They also had the opportunity to develop skills without which they would have less and less chance of being employed once they were free of the cycle of homelessness.

During my two years as an IT worker on the Big Issue project I was privileged to work with a team of technical volunteers who helped me devise training sessions, keep the computers running, keep our database up to date and pulling the right reports for funders and to work alongside clients making websites, art, music and a positive difference to their daily lives and future.

I hope you have enjoyed this newsletter and I hope you may look at the opportunities to volunteer in this rewarding area.

Anne Stafford, Deputy Programme Director