Robert Lloyd - a Sir Gar Blog of random news . . . and some Clecs!

Communities First has now supported more than 100 people to improve their digital skills and learn how to use iPads. The free four-week course, which is delivered in local libraries by Communities First Digital Volunteers, has proved popular and since it started in July 2015 more than 100 people have taken advantage of it. The courses, which are run in Llanelli, Ammanford and Llwynhendy Libraries, show people how to use an iPad, search the internet and download apps and iBooks. The course is open to all ages, and you do not even have to own an iPad to get started! To book a place on the next available course please contact Llanelli or Ammanford Library on 01554 773538 or 01269 598150.

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Learning Disabilities Service has benefited from the generosity of local charity The Megan and Trevor Griffiths Trust. Mr Gerald Cheetham, Honorary Treasurer and Mrs Paula Carpenter MBE, Trustee from the charity visited the team recently to present three iPads at a cost of £1790. Nigel Miller, Therapies Lead for the Learning Disabilities Service was on hand to accept the kind donation: “We are extremely thankful for the generous donation made by the Trust to support our services across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. Communication is vital in maintaining an individual’s independence and these iPads will allow the service to assess people’s ability to use electronic communication equipment and help people to become independent more quickly.” The Megan and Trevor Griffiths Trust aims to help disabled people improve their quality of life and achieve greater independence. It was founded in 1990 by Trevor Griffiths to continue his late wi...

Schoolchildren are using the latest screen technology to get active. Rhydygors School has just taken delivery of 12 top of the range iPads thanks to funding secured by Carmarthenshire County Council’s sport and leisure team. The dozen tablets and docking station will offer pupils who don’t often have access to online technology at home a chance to keep fit and healthy through online applications programmes. The ‘apps’ make available structured physical activities which will allow the eight to 16 year-olds to map their runs, see how far they can go and how many calories they’ve burned. Pupils will also be able to log diet plans, choose their own workouts and interact with each other. Rhydygors PE and ICT teacher Ryan James said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the Ipads and to have such a facility available during our PE lessons and extracurricular activities. These tablets will enable the children to not only develop healthy lifestyles, but vital communication skills.” T...