Jerry, from Northolt, who learnt with UCanDoIT: “I am 44 and was born in Ireland. I have been registered blind since birth, but still have a little sight left allowing me to use a magnifier on my computer. My last employment was with Royal London Society for the Blind (RLSB), where I spent 8 years working as a machine operator. In 2008 I was made redundant and I started looking for jobs and training opportunities. And then I came across UCanDoIT. I learned about UCanDoIT from a Community Union, and took the course because it provides one to one tuition.
Our learners come from a wide variety of backgrounds and find a huge range of uses for their new skills. Here are a few of our learners.
Bev
Bev, 45, from Bromley who learnt with UCanDoIT:
“When I left school I studied hairdressing but didn't enjoy it. Went into Social care for 5 years, then fell pregnant and became a Mum. I now have 2 children aged 22 and 15. I am studying and hopefully will be able to get employment now I am computer literate!
Thomas (Tommy)
Thomas aged 73 of Hanwell who learnt with UCanDoIT. “After leaving school I did an engineering course and then got a job. I later did National Service for 3 years, and after leaving the Army, I was a labourer. At the age of 26 I was diagnosed with diabetes. Since then I’ve been a regular visitor to hospitals and health institutions. Although I am fairly mobile, (I have a scooter) I still can’t go and visit a conventional course in a college. Basically I am stuck most of the time at home.
Diane
Di, 54, from Exeter in Devon who learnt with UCanDoIT:
“I originally came from Mullion in Cornwall. I moved here 28 years ago to commence my second marriage to a guide dog instructor who I met whilst training for my first guide dog, George. I have now had 4 guide dogs and currently have a giant German Shepherd called Simba who is 9 years old.
Clare
Clare, 59, from Ealing who learnt with UCanDoIT:
“I had two daughters, a marriage and a happy life, when, at the age of 35, I was stricken by MS. This was a huge blow but I had to cope with it. My family life suffered and my daughters were left more or less to their own devices. I was stuck at home unable to care for myself let alone to work or have a decent social life.
