Vicky McDougall

Digital Participation Award sponsored by BBC
East of England

Vicky had always struggled with literacy and was terrified at the thought of using a computer. Living in a remote village, she felt very isolated with no transport and no access to the Internet at home.

With two children in primary school, she was desperate to improve her skills to help with their education. She began attending Thursday morning computer group sessions at her local pub “The George.” After working through ‘myguide’ computer courses, she obtained her certificate. Her confidence boosted, she is now studying entry level 2 IT with City & Guilds, and Skills for Life level 1 in Literacy.

Vicky’s enthusiasm to learn is infectious. She distributes posters around her village to advertise pub computer sessions and inspires people to come along. Learning has transformed her life. Her mastery of Internet skills means she no longer feels isolated, and she has volunteered to help run the classes.

“Looking back to last July I would never ever have believed anyone if they had told me what I can now do,” she says.

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“Looking back to last July I would never ever have believed anyone if they had told me what I can now do”
Vicky McDougall, 2011 Award Winner

Film produced by Coracle Films