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In the Dark

ESPOPF’s fifth research project, entitled “In the Dark”, examines the nature of information needed by older people and the obstacles they encounter trying to acquire it.

A detailed analysis of over 5,000 searches by older people identified the commonly-needed data, the departments responsible for providing the information and the preferred method of access. The telephone presented many problems for the majority of older people.

Older people with particular difficulties were identified: those unable to access the internet; the partially-sighted and blind; the hard of hearing and deaf. Insight into these problems was afforded by 3 focus groups.

In conclusion, respondents wanted both local and national information, provided locally by a human being when they needed it. Access by telephone and internet to a local village “hub” was considered essential.

Evidence is provided by questionnaire data from 451 respondents, 18 in-depth interviews from those seeking and those providing information, 3 focus groups and photographs.

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in the dark (21.7.10).pdf3.11 MB

Hampshire County Council

Many thanks for inviting me to the launch today. I really do think that the report is a wonderful piece of work and I look forward to discussing it with my colleagues.
If you are going to produce a corrected web version, the accessible software package that we offer on our People's Network library computers is called Supernova. not 'Super Mega' as you have it in the printed version.
Also, on page 72 you say that older people with mobility problems will have difficulties getting to a mobile library. This group would be eligible for the Home Library Service where we use either staff or volunteers to take library materials to the homes of housebound people.
Thank you again. There is a veritable banquet for thought in these pages.
Nick Coe, Equality & Access Officer

  • By David at 11/13/2010 - 17:43
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From Eastleigh and Romsey MENCAP

Thank you for giving me a copy of your research, it is a very impressive piece of work and I hope to be able to quote your findings when necessary. I hope the right people will read your research and take note.
Michelle, Local MENCAP Society

  • By David at 09/24/2010 - 11:36
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From Edinbugh University

Thanks a lot for the link to this fascinating piece of research. I've forwarded it to a couple of colleagues, including an audiologist who is interested in audiological rehabilitation.
Maria Wolters

  • By David at 08/27/2010 - 15:32
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Hard copies available

To obtain a hard copy, please forward a cheque payable to ESPOPF for £11 per copy (£10+£1 p&p) to
David Andrewes,
Orchard Hill,
Salterns Lane,
Old Bursledon,
Southampton SO31 8DH

  • By David at 08/03/2010 - 14:30
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