A NEW scheme is allowing pensioners and the disabled to shop on-line even if they do not have a computer.

The scheme is being pioneered by Durham County Council social services' People At Home And In Touch project.

Some people are using the project to buy their own ready meals so they do not have too rely too extensively on the Meals-on-Wheels service.

Fourteen people have taken part in the scheme so far, and officials hope this is just the start of a bigger home shopping revolution among the disabled and people with mobility problems.

If a client does not have a computer the project officer visiting them uses a laptop to access the Internet through the telephone line.

The system allows people to order shopping online from big stores, including Tesco, Asda, Iceland and Sainsbury's.

Project officer Pam Mills said: "As well as being able to see what they are ordering and taking advantage of special offers, clients are also getting more independence and having a say in their own care arrangements.

"They can shop for a whole host of things, including groceries, books, clothes and leisure goods. The pilot project is also a good way of getting people more familiar with IT, which will in turn open up other avenues that can promote independence.''

The Government is pushing councils and other public bodies to increase the services they provide on-line.