Edinburgh given superfast broadband go ahead

As Edinburgh is announced as one of ten super-connected cities, Age Scotland urges residents already online to help local older people use the ‘net.
Following today's announcement in the Budget that Edinburgh is one of ten UK cities to receive Westminster funding for super-fast internet, Age Scotland is calling on local people to make their city truly ‘super-connected' by helping older residents to get online.
Age Scotland is now urging internet-savvy residents to take advantage of this exciting opportunity by teaching older friends, family and neighbours how to use the web to help the entire city to get online - regardless of age.
The call comes during Myfriends Online Week, running from 19 - 23 March. The annual digital inclusion campaign run by Age UK and supported in Scotland by Age Scotland, to help more people in later life access the social benefits of the internet.
Many local older people's groups, libraries and community organisations across the country are taking part in the campaign to help get older people online by running classes and providing information and advice about how to use the internet.
Claire Connachan, Digital Communications Officer at Age Scotland says: "It's great news that the people of Edinburgh are going to benefit from super-fast broadband. The internet offers something for everyone, such as reducing isolation and loneliness through tools like email, Skype and Facebook, yet we know that millions of older people have never been online in the UK.
"Therefore I'd urge anyone who already uses the internet to spend some time helping an older friend, family member or neighbour to get online and make Edinburgh truly a city where everyone can benefit from what the internet has to offer."
Martha Lane Fox, the UK's Digital Champion says, "This is really exciting news for businesses and residents in Edinburgh and now gives local people even more reason to make their city truly ‘super-connected' by helping older residents to get online.
"That's why I'm encouraging a national network of local digital champions to help a friend or loved one discover the wonders of the web. The best bit - you don't need to be an IT whizz, just to show someone how they can use technology to pursue passions." 
Claire Connachan at Age Scotland concludes: "Being chosen to be super-connected is a fantastic opportunity for everyone in the city. However, it will only be truly be successful if people of all ages get the chance to use the internet. Age Scotland wants to help people of all abilities to get online.
"Alternatively, if you are already online, why not teach someone the basics and give them the opportunity to be part of this exciting time. If everyone does a little we can make the whole of Edinburgh proud."Tweet