One of our more unusual social aims is to promote community cohesion, creating an environment where participants can meet people they may not usually socialise with and have some fun while learning new skills.

September saw us host one of our special ‘Intergenerational Programme’ days. These one-day events bring together community members from across age groups to take part in activities in the Reuse Centre.

This time a group of nine from Community House in Newport, whose ages literally ranged from 5 years to 60 plus, came to learn about building and using computers.

Participants were partnered up so that people who knew a bit about computers worked with complete novices. Helped by our volunteer IT technicians, by the end of the day participants had built a computer from basic components and installed an operating system and software.

bridging the age gap post

Social Programmes Coordinator Emily Cottrell explained; “Everyone worked really well in teams to build their PCs and it was great to see younger people who have a natural confidence in dealing with technology help older participants.”

There was a slight technical hitch during the day when the internet went down but the group took part in an internet security lesson helping them understand the importance of staying safe online.

At the end of the day people were asked to choose someone in their community who would benefit from having a computer.  The computers built on that day have since been distributed and are, we hope, creating a real difference to people’s lives.

“Our social programmes are the lifeblood of the Reuse Centre” Emily Cottrell continued; “they allow us to make a real difference to the people of Newport.  We are very grateful to Marilyn and the members of Community House for making our day such a success, and we hope to run many more events like it in future.”

If you know of a similar group of people or residents who may benefit from the Wastesavers Reuse Centre social programmes please contact Emily on 01633 216 855.