Patni, Get Connected Team for 'Webhelp 24/7' Online Directory Service

Patni Computer Systems Ltd., a provider of IT services and business solutions, has partnered with UK charity Get Connected to build a new online directory service, 'Webhelp 24/7', that will help young people find solutions to a wide range of issues, from coping with mental illness to learning disabilities.

The new directory service is designed to encourage young people who are reluctant to discuss their problems over the phone, and feel more comfortable with an online service, to make contact with Get Connected. They can then choose the source of help they prefer.

Research undertaken by Patni, as part of the development project, revealed young men aged between 18 and 24 in particular prefer to seek information online. Worryingly, only 6% of young men would seek professional help for emotional problems. This means that a group of 'lost boys' are missing out on the help they could receive from a broad range of charities in the UK.

The launch of 'Webhelp 24/7' is timed to coincide with the charity's ten-year anniversary celebrations at the House of Lords. Hosted by Charles Dunstone - Chief Executive of The Carphone Warehouse, a major supporter of Get Connected, and the Baroness Morgan of Huyton, the event will bring together high profile figures from government and business as well as supporters and volunteers who have made Get Connected a success over the past decade. Get Connected has also been chosen as Patni's Charity of The Year for the EMEA region.

Fiona Clark, Interim Chief Executive of Get Connected, said, "Our commitment is to provide a valuable service and offer emotional support to young people in need of help, who would not necessarily find it easy to track down the right source of information for their particular problem. We're delighted to welcome Patni as our latest partner. Their dedication to the 'Webhelp 24/7' project has enabled us to expand the range of ways that young people can access help, particularly by those who, for whatever reason, prefer to surf than chat."

Derek Kemp, Global Head of Telecommunications, Patni, said, "We see the service that Get Connected provides as invaluable to young people in the UK and congratulate Get Connected on its 10th anniversary."

"It's always vital to remember that technology moves on all the time - and that young people in particular like to use new and different channels, verified by our research. We are pleased to have been invited to contribute to this project and look forward to a long association with Get Connected as a platform to reach out to those seeking support," added Kemp.