News from the North

Our OAB representative in Banbury is Janet Payne who also runs our information desk on a Wednesday afternoon (2pm to 5pm), at the Age Concern Centre, White Lion Walk.

Dolphin Demo at Age Concern

The Dolphin computer software representative demonstrated how easy one of their newly acquired products is to use, particularly for people with some sight, at Age Concern in White Lion Walk, Banbury on February 15th to a group of VIPs and trainers who volunteer teaching older people to use computers.

The software is called Dolphin Guide, and is aimed at Visually Impaired People, (VIPs) who have not used a computer before. Instead of bombarding the VIP with lots of icons, toolbars and menus, it gives an easy list (which it reads out) of options such as email, internet search, addresses, correspondence and so on. These can mostly be accessed with three keys on the keyboard.

If you want a demonstration, a demonstration copy, or some training please make an appointment with Kasia on 01295 278040.

Bernard, a trainer there, also instructs in the use of Dragon talk–only soft ware, which he mastered after he had had a stroke and could no longer use the keyboard.

Dolphin Guide can be used alongside Dragon but the combination can be tricky to use. There is a small fee for training, which for VIP s using Dolphin Guide will happen on Wednesday afternoons.

Talking Newspaper

Banbury Talking Newspaper is pioneering new, very easy to use, technology in the form of memory sticks which slip easily into a small, easily managed, digital player. This is being issued to new subscribers. Peter Wroe and Dorothy Baker are also keen to consult with people to see if the group’s selections from the newspaper are the ones you want to hear. You can contact them on 01295 258474 and 01295 2554691.

Bowling Group

This popular group continues to meet at Lakeside in Banbury at 1pm every Thursday contact me for more details!

MD Group

A new group has been formed for people who have macular disease in the Banbury area. It will meet at the Marlborough Rd Methodist Church in Banbury (OX16 5BZ) on the second Thursday of each month, from 2pm to 4pm.

Coming presentations will include topics covering holidays with the assistance of the Royal Blind Society, Calibre books and Oak House foods (with tastings!). The first meeting was very well attended and it looks as if it will be fun.

Banbury Blind Car Club

A very new group is forming as a result of a trip to Gaydon in January. Watch this space! Contact me, Janet Payne, if you are interested about knowing more.

e-mail: banburycoordinator@oxeyes.org.uk

Telephone: 0752 86 88 619 and I will put you in touch with the group or email sarahsalcombe@fsmail.net

Help Desk

Don’t forget that I am nearly always available on a Wednesday afternoon at Age Concern to demonstrate a small selection of gadgets, give information, or just chat if you want. Carers are also welcome – we know you need support, and I can possibly help or just lend an ear.

With best wishes from Banbury,

Janet Payne

Banbury Coordinator