People with sight problems can now learn keyboard skills and how to navigate the internet after an island firm donated six computers to the Bermuda Society for the Blind.

Phyllis Harshaw, a retired CedarBridge Academy teacher who has vision problems, teaches a twice-weekly typing classes for about six people at the charity’s headquarters at Beacon House, Hamilton, using computers given by Artex Risk Solutions, an insurance risk management firm.

She said: “What I am teaching here is what I learnt for myself.”

Sharon Jackson, who was working on one of the 41 exercises offered, admitted she had problems at first.

She added: “But then I was able to master it more. Soon I’ll be able to use a computer independently and I am very excited about that.”

Cynthia Fishington, also a student on the course, said the classes had helped her return to typing the way she did before she lost her sight.

She added: “Learning it all over again has inspired to me want to go farther and learn more.

“I enjoy it and would encourage anyone to step out of their comfort zone and try it.”

Cassy Blake, head of Artex’s charities committee, said the firm had extra computers after it upgraded and donated machines to Summerhaven and the Bermuda Zoological Society, as well as the Bermuda Society for the Blind.

She added: “It’s a great way for us to give back. We’re happy these computers can go on to another life and benefit others.”

Clifton Lambert said that “a whole new life” had opened up since he went blind and learnt Braille and computer skills at Beacon House.

Mr Lambert said: “It is very well appreciated that Artex donated these computers to us. It would benefit anyone who is sight impaired to come by, visit and come to the classes offered.”

The keyboards do not use Braille, but raised bumps on some “home” keys help people with vision problems find their way around the keyboard.

Speaking software is also used to guide students through learning to type, and on to the internet.