2 minute read
The key of life
Student Joe Moore is beaming after The Life Rooms helped him discover a whole new digital world.
Joe Moore enjoyed a holiday in Blackpool so much he sent a complimentary email to the hotel where he stayed. Nothing unusual in that, except Joe is unable to read or write and has never used a keyboard.
The 46 year old has learning challenges and is autistic, yet his determination to learn digital skills are matched only by his zest for life.
The Life Rooms Digital Health Advisor, Rachael Percival supported Joe through an online learning programme at The Life Rooms Lee Valley in Belle Vale.
“I’ve watched Joe work hard and overcome obstacles. He’s grown not just in skills but in confidence. He types postcards to his friends and family, makes photos and videos and follows his beloved Everton Football Club online.”
Joe is a much loved character, not least because of his beaming smile and quick wit. His MC Magazine interview at Lee Valley Millenium Centre was paused several times as people came up to shake his hand and say hello.
“Joe’s love of his community is wonderful,” said Rachael. “He fundraises for charity, volunteers in the Millennium Café, at story and rhyme time in the library and with pensioner groups – and that’s alongside working at McDonald’s and studying with The Life Rooms. He brings joy to everyone with his dry humour, banter and words of wisdom.”
Joe’s response to the compliments? A huge grin. “I was nervous, I’d never written in my life and I wanted to write letters to people,” he says.
Joe took part in The Life Rooms’ Digital Inclusion Initiative, part of a wider digital skills programme. People who sign up receive a free android tablet, six months of free data and a 90 minute digital skills session. Call 0151 478 6556 (Walton) or 0151 472 4099 (Lee Valley) or visit: liferooms.org to find out more.
