Worthing internet firm offers deal to bridge online gap between generations

A WORTHING phone and broadbrand provider has responded to latest research which has shown a gap in website knowledge between the generations.
By The Newsroom
Published 9th May 2011, 19:56 BST

Charity Talk is offering three months free broadband to customers in the In the wake of Ofcome figures which revealed 70% of parents with children aged 12-15 years who use the internet at home think they know less about the internet than their children do.

However, the internet company suggests now is the time for technology savvy teenagers across the Worthing area to take responsibility for getting their parents and grandparents online and more acquainted with the digital landscape.

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Despite a recent increase in those aged 60+ logging on to the internet, many still claim to struggle with mobile technology and the West Sussex firm believes that missing out on the internet’s benefits is compromising older adults’ quality of life.

With half of parents with children aged 5-15 also saying they know less than their children about the internet, CharityTalk suggests if parents are willing to sit down and learn from their children, they will be empowered to introduce stringent rules which help make the use of the internet safer and more enjoyable for the family.

Children and young people spend a high percentage of their spare time online: chatting with friends, emailing, using social networks, playing games, shopping etc. In addition, schools and colleges also routinely use digital technology for lessons, and as a result most young people will spend around eight hours each day in front of a screen of some kind.

Owen Bloodworth, Managing Director CharityTalk, said: “In the UK there are 9.2 million adults who are currently offline. Older people can benefit from the numerous savings to be made from shopping and paying bills online. They can get health and exercise information, connect with old friends and keep in touch with current affairs. Online safety concerns all of us and on the flip side, if parents learn the benefits of the internet in their own home from their kids, then they can soon introduce responsible and safe use of the computer and enrich the lives of the family.” For more information visit www.charity-talk.org/