Spendid Support
We think EAST DORSET & NEW FOREST Branch deserves this award because:
A computer connected to the Worldwide Web is uniquely helpful as it allows an individual access to a multitude of opportunities without leaving the comfort and safety of their own home. Although the number varies at present the ED&NF branch is supporting fourteen people living with MND to access the internet. In some cases this is payment of connection and broadband fees but everyone new joining the branch and having no equipment of their own is offered the basic equipment and enough training to “get on line”
As a baseline all members of our “Merry Band” enjoy access to each other and there is a lively interchange of supporting email messages and, jokes and information about forthcoming events and reviews and reports of events for those not able to attend. Many keep in touch with distant family and friends through email and increasingly enjoy the benefits of shopping, booking tickets and researching on line.
The computer project has had a wider impact because one of our members has created and maintains our website, www.mndedorsetandnforest.org.uk which reports everything we plan and do.
Other examples of how computers have extended the useful productive life of our group members include preparing a presentation to the House of Lords during the “Right to Life” debate, another member is a full Trustee on the main MNDA managment committee and finds his computer an essential aid in keeping in touch with national initiatives while another regularly writes and emails articles that are printed in “Thumbprint” and on the website and Newsletter. Using IT an increasing number of members are organising and publicising fund raising and social events for the local and national Associations.. Such events include an annual quiz, skittles evenings,concerts and a variety of trips and fund raising ideas.
All finance for this project comes from appeals to Charitable Trusts and are dedicated to this scheme.
