Voice for All was aware that many people with a learning disability had never had the opportunity to learn about social media and how to stay safe on line. Some of our members in particular had heard about Facebook and how great it was for staying in touch with family and friends but they didn’t know how to use it. Voice for All wanted to change this.
Facebook is a popular website that allows people to keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues by sending messages, sharing photographs, videos and other information. There are people all over the world using Facebook to keep in touch and stay connected.
Voice for All with the help of some of our partners (Chorley and South Ribble Clinical Commissioning Group and SPICE) put on a training session for self-advocates and advocacy groups to come and find out about Facebook. The training was kindly provided by Joanne Farmer (Digital Inclusion Officer) for Chorley Council and it included;
– Setting up an email address
– Creating a Facebook account
– Tips and advice on ‘How to stay safe online’
On Wednesday 3rd August, fifteen people from across Lancashire came to Lisieux Hall to attend the workshop which was fun, interactive and very informative. Joanne had prepared a presentation and brought in a laptop for everyone to use. She helped us to learn how to set up a personal email address, open a Facebook account and spent a great deal of time sharing tips and advice on how to stay safe online. Here is a great booklet produced by the foundation for people with learning disabilities that will help you to stay safe online; http://www.learningdisabilities.org.uk/content/assets/pdf/publications/staying-safe-online.pdf
The Facebook training was really good and was enjoyed by everyone. Many people said this was a great opportunity and much needed. Everyone went away looking forward to exploring the world of social media and in staying connected with their family and friends.
“Thank you Voice for All for the opportunity!”