Tech help for First Nations seniors

Published: 22 Aug 2024 12:14pm

First Nations seniors can get tech help for their smart phones, laptops and other devices, from young First Nations people.

If you’re an older First Nations person who has a tech problem, or difficulty accessing online services, then drop in to the Tolland Community Centre and Madison Williams and Caleb Atkinson will try to solve it with you.

Mr Atkinson said most of the problems involved a mobile phone or laptop not working.

“It’s often just about the user’s settings,” Mr Atkinson said.

“The job gives me the chance to pick up new knowledge and pass it on, and by doing that I’m giving people the tools they need to help themselves.”

Library Services Team Leader and program coordinator Ms Jeannie Hazell said the program is run by Wagga Wagga City Library with funding from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice following a successful pilot program run in 2022.

“Technology assistance is necessary for older generations, creating and maintaining connections and to stay informed,” Ms Hazell said.

“It’s also vital for First Nations Seniors who need to access online government and health services.”

Ms Hazell stresses the program is friendly, flexible and free, and that appointments aren’t necessary.

“We invite any First Nations senior to bring their own device and their tech problem, and we’ll try to solve it!”

“You don’t need to book, just drop in for a tech yarn!”