East Ham based charity Skills Enterprise has been offering free online classes during lockdown. Since March 2020, they have supported 126 people through activities ranging from English to employability lessons, including a series of activities specially for the over 50-year-olds.

Project Coordinator, Payal Shah, said:

Older people are often isolated. Every Thursday, our sessions cover topics such as health awareness, questions and concerns about the Covid-19 vaccine, nutrition counselling and exercise sessions, including Bollyfit, Zumba and meditation and breathing techniques.

In partnership with Newham Council, Newham Libraries and the Renewal Programme, Skills Enterprise organise training sessions for digital champions, people who want to volunteer to help those with poorer digital skills, teaching them how to set up an email account, how to use the internet safely, Microsoft Office and Zoom, where most activities and support sessions have been happening since the pandemic began.

They also offer career advice and CV assistance, guidance through your search for another job, as well as support with applications for Universal Credit, Council Tax Reduction, Housing Benefits or the EU Settlement Scheme.

Adults with low income, isolated, elderly or with underlying health conditions who do not yet have a tablet or laptop may fill in a survey and apply for a digital device giveaway.

Skills Enterprise dedicates its time to supporting vulnerable and marginalised people in Newham, teaching new skills to residents and giving them guidance and advice on health and wellbeing, employment and skills, in order to boost their confidence and allow them to achieve their goals and transform their lives.

Classes Schedule:

Mondays 11-12pm: Employability and English Session
2-3pm: Job Centre Get ready for work sessions

Tuesdays 11-12pm: Digital IT training
12pm-1pm: Money management

Thursday 11-12pm: Digital Elders Project (over 50’s)

support@skillsenterprise.co.uk

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