Date published: 18 June 2026
Joe Moore enjoyed a holiday to Blackpool so much he sent a complimentary email to the hotel where he stayed.
Nothing unusual in that - except Joe is unable to read or write and had never used a keyboard.
Joe Moore enjoyed a holiday to Blackpool so much he sent a complimentary email to the hotel where he stayed. Nothing unusual in that - except Joe is unable to read or write and had never used a keyboard.
Joe has learning challenges and is autistic but his determination to learn digital skills are matched only by his zest for life. Digital Health Advisor Rachael Percival supported Joe through an online learning programme at The Life Rooms.
“I’ve watched Joe work hard and overcome obstacles. He’s grown not just in skills but in confidence. He types postcards to his friends and family, makes photos and videos and follows his beloved Everton Football Club online.”
Joe is a much loved character, not least because of his beaming smile and quick wit. His interview with us was paused several times as people came up to shake his hand and say hello.
“Joe’s love of his community is wonderful,” says Rachael. “He fundraises for charity, volunteers in the Millennium Café, at story and rhyme time in the library and with pensioner groups. All that alongside working at McDonald’s and studying with The Life Rooms. He brings joy to everyone with his dry humour, banter and words of wisdom.”
Joe’s response to the compliments? A huge grin. “I was nervous, I’d never written in my life and I wanted to write letters to people,” he says. “They got me typing and now I talk to my brother on WhatsApp and I take photos. It’s a miracle.”