Computers help children to learn (From The Bolton News)

Computers help children to learn

TWO companies have joined forces to improve learning for children at a Bolton charity.

Bolton Children's Opportunity Group, (COG) a charity for children with learning difficulties, will provide better access to computers to help youngsters learn.

Bury computer services company Cedilla Systems, and Alexander & Co, a firm of chartered accountants based in Manchester, have donated free computers to help the charity.

The contribution consists of 20 PCs with software to help children improve literacy and build confidence.

Bolton COG's existing computers help children with conditions such as autism and Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to improve spelling, reading and writing skills.

The computers belonged to Alexander & Co and will be installed at the Bolton Centre later this month by edilla Systems.

Cedilla managing director Mike Dickson said: "We are delighted that we were able to help a local charity like Bolton COG. We specialise in Microsoft Business Solutions software but until recently, we rarely got involved in PCs and hardware.

"But since the launch of our Infrastructure division, we now install new PCs and servers, which gives us the opportunity to re-deploy those computers we replace.

"As the computers belonged to Alexander & Co, they were instrumental in helping us make the donation."

Stephen Verber, partner at Alexander & Co, said: "We have recently invested more than £100,000 in new hardware and software.

"We are delighted that the old machines could be put to good use and that some many children will benefit in the future."

Bolton COG president Nicola Pearcey said: "Previously, we only had a handful of computers for more than 66 children. Many of them were missing out.

"Now, all of our children will have access to learning facilities throughout the day."