First free in-person digital courses for older people start today in Sligo
THE first free in-person digital skills classes being rolled out nationally for older people start today, May 5, at 3pm in the Coolaney Community Centre.
The courses are part of the Hi Digital partnership initiative between Vodafone Ireland Foundation, Active
Retirement Ireland and ALONE.
In County Sligo, the first class will be held at Coolaney Community Centre (F56 WR50) today, Thursday at 3pm.
A first of its kind, the five-year programme was developed to bridge the worsening digital divide in Ireland and support older people with little or no digital skills to get themselves online.
In-person Hi Digital classes are now available to book across the country and are open to any person aged 65+ who would like to develop their digital literacy and confidence with guidance and support alongside other older people in their community. The Hi Digital training course consists of bitesized lessons organised around key digital themes including internet basics and how to use online devices, as well as digital apps and features such as social media or video calling that can enhance daily life and combat issues such as isolation.
Topics covered include: Sending emails; Keeping in touch with friends and family through social media or video calling; Online banking and government services online; Looking up information for hobbies or travel; Reading, watching and listening to news online; Online shopping; Using the internet on your phone; Using your phone to take and share pictures or videos; Online safety and more.
Maureen Kavanagh, CEO of Active Retirement Ireland, said the Hi Digital programme is about giving older people in Ireland more choices and empowering them to learn the skills they need if they do want to get online. “Classes are free and I encourage any older person who would like to improve their digital skills to get in touch and sign up.”
Anyone wishing to attend a class can book their place by contacting Active Retirement Ireland on 1800 20 30 30, or by emailing hidigital@ activeirl.ie