Why I became a Trustee with ACM

by Ashley Bale (Age Connects Morgannwg Trustee)

"I joined the board of Age Connects Morgannwg in December 2018 - with the objective of supporting the charity to deliver its strategic priorities with a focus on their cyber, digital and IT. After learning about the organisation, it’s ethos, goals and mission I was certain that I wanted to volunteer and support the organisation's beneficiaries, trustees and employees to help shape the future of the organisation to benefit the people it supports. 

 With over 10 years experience working in the third sector for a leading supported living provider across Cardiff, Rhondda Cynon Taf and Vale of Glamorgan - it has been my mission to enable opportunities and promote the potential of new and emerging technologies in gaining independence and well-being for supported people and/or vulnerable groups in our society. 

 The third sector is evolving, working innovatively, collaboratively and being proactive in finding new ways of working - embracing new advancements in technology to offer better services and provisions. 

 Society is becoming more technologically dependent - whether it’s for online shopping, banking, paying bills or communicating with friends and family. Many of us as consumers would look for the best deals, technology that works for us, based on our own individual preferences and choice. Supported people want exactly the same offerings and opportunities as anyone else and this matters to me and it's important that we don't leave anyone behind. 

 With the government and NHS services becoming digitised - simple core provisions such as claiming benefits, paying tax or making a GP appointment are moving online. Services that we are expect to use at some point in our lives, will be potentially inaccessible for a demographic of society without internet access or the ability to utilise some form of technology. 

 It's important that we don't forget that the lives of the previous generations, was very different, particularly before the emergence of today's technology. At the same time, it's vital that we support, be inclusive and encourage people, that they also can utilise, gain and benefit from technology. 

 The possibilities are endless if the benefits of technology are harnessed and used in the right ways - it can positively impact and change peoples lives for the better. We must also be mindful that technology is not always the solution and should be used as a complementary addition in most circumstances. 

 With an understanding of what is ahead in the world of tech, I felt that it was my responsibility to share my knowledge and skills in supporting the board of a worthwhile charity. It was not hard to decide, this charity was going to be Age Connects Morgannwg. 

 I would strongly recommend joining the board of Age Connects Morgannwg." 

Ashley Bale 

Age Connects Morgannwg Trustee