Get going with Gusto

A new website is up and running to help people in Shropshire to share interests, enjoy new opportunities and make new friends. 

Gusto is a new way to bring people together, and its new website is just one of the ways it is helping people to do more of the activities they love, support each other and try new things.  The friendly group of mostly retired adults is supported by Shropshire Council. 

Members of Gusto met on Wednesday 20 February 2013 at the brand new Digital Den in the heart of the Meole Estate in Shrewsbury to learn new IT skills and explore the website – www.giveitsomegusto.org – including how it offers information on getting involved and upcoming activities. 

The Digital Den has been created by Severnside Housing and social enterprise, Social Telecoms, and is part of a wider scheme to offer residents affordable Internet access and phone calls, as well as free IT training and job opportunities. 

Sue Jury, Gusto’s co-ordinator, organised the Digital Den event, alongside Social Telecoms Director, John Clarke and Severnside’s Community Development Manager, Sue Dell. 

Sue Jury and the Digital Den team were on hand to explain to Gusto members how to get online, log onto the Gusto website and offer some basic tips about using the Internet. 

For member Joy Roberts this was the first time she had ever used a computer.

Joy said:

“I thought I’d come along and see what it’s all about.  I was a little bit nervous but I want to learn something new.” 

John Speake, who had just bought his first laptop, said at the event:

“My granddaughter helped me buy one, and Dan from the Digital Den is going to come over and show me how to use it.  You’re only young once so I might as well have a go – everyone else is doing it.” 

Gwilym Butler, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for community engagement, added:

“We hope that the new website will help more people to get involved in Gusto – whether they would like to join the group or host activities. 

“Gusto provides the chance to join a community of friendly, like-minded people with whom you can laugh, have fun and learn, and who can also listen and offer support. 

“It is great that we have been able to partner with the Digital Den and show Gusto members the new website.  This offers us another way we can spread the word and bring people together; creating strong networks, building confidence and helping people keep connected to their communities. 

“I would urge anyone who would like to meet more people, share their hobbies and explore new interests to go to www.giveitsomegusto.org. 

“Gusto is not just for those with IT knowledge though.  If you don’t have access to the Internet, the Gusto team would still love to hear from you and you can get in contact with Sue by telephone on 07511 139932.” 

To find out more information about Gusto: 

Call 07511 139932.

Email hello@giveitsomegusto.org

Go to the website – www.giveitsomegusto.org.