Pickering and Ferens HA (PFH) commissioned works through EN:Procure’s Frameworks to support the procurement of the construction of the Newbridge Village scheme and Grounds Maintenance contract. PfA chose to spend the Social Value Credits they accrued on continuing the roll out of kiosks to enable residents without access to the internet to use a communal facility, following a successful pilot scheme in Christopher Pickering Lodge.
The kiosks are designed to support residents who don’t have their own smartphone or tablet/laptop to access the internet. Digital connectivity for older residents is important these days to access online shopping, researching information, or keeping in touch with family and friends.
The kiosks, supplied by not-for-profit company Social Telecoms, provides a touch screen with a menu that gives residents swift access to digital services such as PFH’s website, other key local websites e.g. Hull City Council, supermarket shopping and social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Kiosks can also be used for video calls.
Using the Social Value Credits Picking and Ferens Homes now want to install 4 more kiosks, making a total of 5 in their Sheltered Housing schemes. These will be installed in Broadway Manor, Ada Holmes Circle, Humber View and Malin Lodge.
To support residents Pickering and Ferens Housing run training sessions at the scheme supporting residents to learn how to use the kiosks
Emma Mottram, Director of EN:Procure said, “As our reliance on technology increases, it’s wonderful to see that Pickering and Ferens Homes through investing their Social Value Credits donated by Efficiency North are helping to ensure that their residents are not left behind by the technological tide.”
Clare Warren, Chief Executive Pickering and Ferens HA, said “If the pandemic has taught us anything, it has taught us the importance of staying in touch. Easy access to the internet is a must. Here at PFH, the value of our social kiosks. developed in partnership with Social Telecoms and sponsored through our Efficiency North social value credits, have supported our vital work in promoting social and digital inclusion. The success of the pilot and rollout of more kiosks provides a fantastic asset, building skills and connections amongst our older residents.”