RehabCare Sligo cyber safety programme shortlisted for two national awards
REHABCARE'S Elevate Day Service in Sligo has been shortlisted in two categories at the Irish Healthcare Centre Awards, which take place on Friday 10th May at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin.
The programme, ‘Supporting Independent Social Media and Internet Usage' at RehabCare Elevate Sligo, has been nominated for Best Use of Information Technology and Best Healthcare Initiative – Disability Services.
RehabCare Elevate is a day service that is tailored for individuals aged 18 to 35 with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities, physical and sensory disabilities, and dual diagnosis. In recognition of the increasing importance of digital connectivity for individuals it supports, the service pioneered this comprehensive new cyber safety programme.
This innovative initiative empowers individuals to navigate the digital landscape safely and confidently, setting a new standard in disability support.
The initiative was a collaborative effort between the RehabCare Elevate team and other departments, born out of a pressing need to address complex safeguarding concerns related to social media usage. Extensive research informed the development of the programme, which covers a wide range of topics, including online safety, privacy settings, digital citizenship, and cyberbullying. The programme's structure and content were crafted based on insights gathered from reputable sources, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all participants.
Director of Care at the Rehab Group Gráinne Fogarty said: “At RehabCare, we strive to create inclusive and empowering environments where individuals can thrive. The Elevate programme reflects our dedication to leveraging technology to enhance the lives of those we serve, promoting independence, safety, and meaningful social connections. Congratulations to the team at Elevate for this fantastic initiative.”
Delivered over six weeks using multimedia tools and interactive quizzes, the programme has yielded significant results. Evaluation reports indicate a remarkable improvement in participants' awareness of cyber safety, with a notable increase in their knowledge and understanding of online risks and best practices. These positive outcomes underscore the effectiveness of the Elevate programme in enhancing the digital literacy and safety of individuals with disabilities.
The programme's positive impact extends beyond individual participants, benefiting the organisation as a whole. Staff members report increased engagement and positive interaction during sessions, with plans to expand the programme to other services within RehabCare. Testimonials from participants highlight the programme's effectiveness in promoting inclusive learning and practical steps taken to enhance online security.
Ms Fogarty added: “Looking ahead, RehabCare remains committed to further enhancing its services to meet the community's growing demands. Plans include sharing learnings and resources with other organisations and supporting individuals with disabilities in navigating the digital world safely and independently.”