Optalis customers get IT right!

During October, Optalis began running what has since become a very popular computer session, called IT4U.

Sessions take place every Monday afternoon in the Computer Suite at the Crescent Centre (Lower Earley), where customers have access to ten computers and a laptop. Customers have been learning about how to use Microsoft Word; saving, changing fonts, colours, and adding clip art to documents. Those taking part have already produced personalised front pages for their folders, timetables, and calendars.

The idea of IT4U actually started last year at another of Optalis’ sites - Westmead Day Service - but due to demand, staff members reorganised the activity so that capacity could increase, and as a result, an extra 10 people can now be accommodated. Four people attend the session at Westmead Day Centre on Wednesday mornings.

The session requires a lot of preparation and has presented challenging tasks. For instance, customers have mixed abilities, but with good teamwork we have ensured that each individual is working towards their potential and is fully engaged in the sessions.

Senior Support Worker, Evelyn Ornales, who leads the IT4U sessions at both bases, said: “The feedback has been fantastic from parents, and our customers have expressed how much they enjoy the sessions, which has made for a very fulfilling and rewarding experience for staff and clients alike.”

“At the moment, we’re full on both days, but I believe if there are more clients interested there are possibility of creating another session. Please contact me for more information.”

Evelyn Ornales, Senior Support Worker, can be contacted at: evelyn.ornales@optalis.org / 07881 650074