Programme addresses digital exclusion
A programme aimed at increasing levels of digital literacy among older people has to date had more than 65,000 people participate in it.
Called the Hi Digital programme, it addresses the growing digital exclusion experienced by older adults, empowering them to use the internet in their daily lives and stay connected for the future.
It’s run by Vodafone in stores throughout Cork. The company is encouraging older adults to visit their stores for Drop In Fridays from 10am-1pm each Friday for free learning courses in digital learning, building confidence and skills, especially for those feeling isolated from digital society and vulnerable to being left behind.
Hi Digital Drop In Friday – Vodafone store locations:
Wilton Shopping Centre
Oliver Plunkett Street
Mahon Point Shopping Centre
Main Street, Midleton
Main Street, Bandon
Castlewest Shopping Centre, Ballincollig
Pearse Street, Clonakilty
Bank Place, Mallow
Main Street, Macroom
Bridge Street, Skibbereen
Launched in 2021, the free online Hi Digital course is divided into short lessons that teach older adults how to access the internet, use smartphones, stay safe online, and identify and avoid scams and fraud. In 2023, the Vodafone Hi Digital programme expanded to offer in-person support for older adults in Vodafone stores nationwide with Drop-in Fridays. This service provides free practical support on using phones, tablets, and computers.
Due to its popularity, Vodafone has added 13 additional stores to the programme nationwide. During Drop In Fridays, people are trained by Hi Digital Ambassadors offering personalised assistance.
For those unable to attend on Fridays, the free online course at hidigital.ie provides useful tips and information.
The Vodafone Foundation will soon launch a new video on the Hi Digital site, demonstrating how to navigate the Transport for Ireland app, helping older adults incorporate it into their daily lives. Vodafone said the programme has been transformative for many older adults, enabling them to connect more easily with family and friends, access vital services, and navigate the digital world with confidence.
Liz Roche, Head of the Vodafone Foundation in Ireland, said: “The Hi Digital programme has been a transformative initiative, bridging the digital divide and empowering older adults to confidently navigate the digital world.
"Seeing the positive impact on participants’ lives, from staying connected to loved ones to safely using online services, highlights how important this programme is to our participants. We are looking forward to continuing to expand our learning modules and making it as accessible as possible to ensure that nobody gets left behind in the digital world.”