The idea that modern technology is the domain of the young is being thoroughly disproved by a Moray octogenarian who not only has computer skills but is taking a great deal of joy by passing them on.
In the first of our series on local people doing extraordinary things through volunteering in the community, we speak today to Donnie Stewart, a ‘Living it Up’ community champion in Lossiemouth.
While long retired Donnie has never stopped being busy – he is well known in Moray for his wonderful work as a local historian. He gives talks on the history of his beloved Lossiemouth to community groups of all ages – while he still enjoys a game of bowls or, more recently, supporting technology taster sessions through Living it Up Moray.
A cancer support volunteer for 20 years, Donnie got involved with Living it Up when he recognised that technology could help many people who have been bereaved to become less socially isolated. With his friend Jimmy Green, Donnie runs technology taster sessions in their local community to teach people how to get the most from a tablet computer.
That included a group of over 25 people at a recent ‘Be Active Live Long’ (BALL) group session where they determined to demonstrate that there is nothing to be afraid of when it comes to using tablets in everyday life.
“We are not really trying to teach people how to use a tablet, we are trying to say to them ‘dinna be feart of the tablet’ – it’s not like a laptop,” Donnie said.
He added: “I hope to help Living it Up by continuing with the tablet sessions. We believe that they are worth doing, that they are a force for good.
“We also believe that what we are doing is of benefit to people it is up-skilling and it is helping.”
For more information on Living it Up Moray visit their website.