SWIT - Computers For The Disabled

2007-07-19T00:35:00.000-07:00

SWIT - Spider's Web IT

Our development - Spider's Web IT was set up in July 2004 to provide free refurbished computers to Brighton residents.

Originally our constitution said that we provided refurbished PCs for:- "Adults who have learning difficulties, physical disabilities or visual impairment problems".

By 2005 we realised that the way our constitution was worded was preventing many more disabled people from applying.

The word "Adult" was removed first of all, so we could start supporting children with special needs as well.

Then after much consultation with other support groups in the area, we decided to let the authorities determine who was eligible or not, by simply asking for a photo-copy of the disabled individuals benefit letter.

So in 2006 the constitution read "Anyone living in Brighton or Hove who is in receipt of Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance or Long Term Incapacity Benefit may apply for a free refurbished PC."

By April 2007 we came to the conclusion that even that wasn't enough. So we removed the words Brighton & Hove. There are disabled people who originally came from Brighton & Hove, who are still being supported financially by Brighton & Hove, but who now receive care in the community while living in Fishersgate, Southwick, Shoreham-by-Sea or Lancing.

So in the future it will depend on the person's need. Who pays for their support in the community, and how many volunteers we have.

So the Constitution is now says "Anyone living locally, who is in receipt of Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance or Long Term Incapacity Benefit may apply for a free refurbished PC, if they don't already have one."

Employment prospects are improved after volunteering.

During the last three years the scheme has helped several young men with computer engineer training, which has enabled them to get paid work in ICT support.

How well have we done?

On 19th July 2007 our records show that we had been given 127 computers, which were stripped and rebuilt, enabling us to give away 78 upgraded systems to disabled men, women and children living locally.

Where is locally?

So far we have given systems away to people from all areas of Brighton & Hove, but we have also given away system to people who live in Fishergate, Southwick and Shoreham-by-Sea as well.

We need more Volunteers

We would like to do more, but it will always depend on how many volunteers we have. Our scheme not only supplies refurbished computers, but we also supply ongoing help, and ongoing repair and replacement. So for the scheme to improve we need many more volunteers from all areas of Brighton & Hove, as well as Fishersgate, Southwick, Shoreham-by Sea and Lancing. This way the volunteers from those areas could help us by supporting the people who live the closest to them.

Tel: 01273 298667

Email: hazel.marchant@ntlworld.com

SWIT Spider's Web IT

SWIT - Computers For The Disabled