Earlier this year, WaveLength went to visit Gatehouse Caring in Bury St Edmunds after we gave them some tablets. We met with Amanda, Gatehouse’s CEO, who showed us around the centre and told us all about their work.
Gatehouse offers vital support to dementia sufferers and their carers. They collect good quality furniture to give to people on low incomes who can’t afford their own. They also host the Bury St Edmunds foodbank, provide a Christmas dinner, and donate Christmas hampers to lonely people in the community.
When we visited, a group of dementia carers were practicing their IT skills on WaveLength-donated tablet computers. They were busy sharing favourite YouTube videos, playing crossword games, and using social media to write to family members living abroad.
One of the carers told his friend:
I couldn’t sleep last night, so I spent two hours watching flash mobs on YouTube. It really helped me relax.
We asked Arthur what he thought about modern technology. He told us:
Some people say that computers isolate you. It’s the opposite. If you don’t have a computer, you are isolated.
We are grateful that we can help Gatehouse in their important work and delighted to see all the great ways that technology is helping.
About WaveLength
For 80 years, WaveLength has led the way with delivering change for lonely and isolated people. We give televisions, radios, and tablets to help relieve loneliness.
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from technology, take a look at the ‘Apply for Help’ section of our website.
We have also created a handy page of resources to help people who might be lonely. Visit our ‘Helpful Services’ for more.