Teaching the benefits of technology in Ranish, Lewis
Saturday, 03 December 2022
Mobile
All things mobile
The Scottish Government’s Scottish 4G Infill Programme (S4GI) is a £28.75 million initiative delivering 4G infrastructure and services in up to 55 mobile “notspots” in rural and remote parts of Scotland. S4GI is being delivered in partnership with WHP Telecoms and the Scottish Futures Trust, and is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to support activity in the Highlands and Islands.
Embracing technology can be daunting for some people and, following the activation of the S4GI mast in Ranish, Isle of Lewis, many of the local residents were able to enjoy 4G connectivity for the first time.
Thanks to the S4GI programme and WHP Community Fund, North Lochs Community Centre were able to introduce their 'Tea and Technology' sessions. These sessions helped elderly residents learn about how digital connectivity can positively impact their daily lives.
We caught up with Magaidh Smith, who was a volunteer at 'Tea & Technology':
“The recent activation of the S4GI masts will help to resolve years of problems across Ranish (Lewis) and Manish (Harris). Until now many people have been unable to call, text or access the internet easily which has made it difficult to stay in touch with friends and family.
“We realised that many elderly residents within the community weren’t aware of the opportunities that 4G brings. Our 'Tea & Technology' classes started with the aim of showing elderly residents the different ways in which they can use technology and 4G, including checking the news, contacting family and friends and even getting accurate and hourly updates on the weather!”
This case study is an example of the huge benefits the #S4GI programme is bringing to local communities. Find out more here: Scottish 4G infill programme: progress update - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)