Free digital skills classes for older people in Cavan

Mullahoran Community Centre is the venue chosen to hold the first of a series of classes to encourage older people to engage with the digital world.

Free in-person digital skills classes for older people rollout across the country from tomorrow (Tuesday, May 3), as part of the Hi Digital partnership initiative between Vodafone Ireland Foundation, Active Retirement Ireland and ALONE.

In County Cavan, the first class will be held at Mullahoran Community Centre, Loughduff (H12 AF43) on Tuesday 7 June at 11am.

A first of its kind, five-year programme, Hi Digital was developed to bridge the worsening digital divide in Ireland and support older people with little or no digital skills to get online.

Active Retirement Ireland’s in-person classes are now available to book 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.

Classes are run by trained ARI digital ambassadors who offer face to face training and guidance so older people can develop their skills in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The Hi Digital training course consists of bite-sized 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 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 and using the internet on your phone.

The course will also deal with online safety.

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