A NEW computer suite has been launched in Christchurch in a bid to boost residents’ employability and access to technology.

The 12 computers, donated by Sovereign Housing, were unveiled at Somerford ARC on Saturday in the presence of the mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Denise Jones.

Chris Hopkins, trustee and chairman of Somerford ARC, said she is delighted by the new facility and thanked Sovereign Housing for its contribution, as well as Howdens for supplying the work surfaces fitted by resident Martin Flack.

She added: “It’s been great – the first course has already been booked up so we are very pleased.

“We have courses targeting the older generation to bring them into the new digital era as well plenty for younger people too.”

IT lecturer Kit Alcock, who will be running courses at the centre, said she thinks the suite has been needed for a long time.

“We are going to have drop-in sessions, structured and certified courses,” she added.

“I am very passionate about getting communities together and getting them up and running – and I think this will really help.

“I want to get kids back in the job market and for them to have a place to learn really vital skills.

“Now we want to hear from the community and what they want.

“Whether it is one-to-one sessions or something in a group setting, we will be able to offer it.”

Lee Dillon, community investment coordinator at Sovereign Housing, said he was pleased to see the community’s efforts had been rewarded with a facility potentially so useful.

He added: “It is a place where people can apply for jobs and search for housing, which might be much more difficult for them without this.”