Jockey Club helps elderly and disabled step into the digital age

03/16/2013

The elderly and disabled can now benefit more from the latest communication technology at the Jockey Club Digital Inclusion Centre in Shek Kip Mei Estate, which is operated by the Association for Engineering and Medical Volunteer Services (EMV). 

Funded by a donation of some HK$10 million from The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, which also covers three years of operating costs, the Centre was officially opened today (16 March) by Club Steward Dr Eric Li Ka Cheung, Deputy Government Chief Information Officer (Policy and Customer Service) Joey Lam and EMV Executive Committee Chairman Alan Chow.

Observing that the fast-paced advancement of information technology had brought a lot of convenience to daily life, Dr Li said the Club was delighted to fund a facility that could benefit the less techno-savvy.  “We hope the elderly and disabled will be able to lead more independent lives and integrate more into the community through the rehabilitation training services offered by the Centre,” he told the guests.

The brand new Centre is designed to enhance the digital accessibility of the disabled by offering comprehensive services including an E-Clinic, E-Workshop and E-Institute.  A multi-disciplinary team will provide assessments and solutions with one-stop support services to enable the disabled to use information and communication technology in a barrier-free environment.  It is expected to serve around 24,000 disabled and elderly users annually.

The Trust has partnered EMV since 1990 by supporting various projects that improve the daily lives of disabled and elderly people.  Since 2005, the Trust has been supporting the Computer Rehabilitation Resource Station (C-Rehab) under The Hong Kong Jockey Club Community Project Grant.  C-Rehab is the first rehabilitation website in the city specially designed for people with intellectual disabilities.  With wide-ranging and multifarious applications in place, over 500 multimedia training programmes have been established to enhance users’ daily living skills and allow them to achieve independent lives.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club

Founded in 1884, The Hong Kong Jockey Club is not only one of the world's leading horse racing organisations but also a world top 15 charitable organisation and Hong Kong’s largest community contributor, donating HK$1.7 billion in 2012. It is also a major taxpayer, Hong Kong's single largest by far, generating over HK$16 billion a year for public funds. The Club pioneers technology applications for sporting and betting entertainment, striving for the highest levels of customer service. As a membership club, it is recognised as one of Asia’s most prestigious, with more than 23,000 members. These multifaceted roles make it a well-respected and remarkable organisation, dedicated to its mission of enhancing the quality of life for all Hong Kong people.