Help older people learn basic IT skills

"It has given me a new lease on life. I feel so involved now, I used to feel so isolated and never knew what people were talking about regarding internet, email etc. This has been a light in a black tunnel for me. The joy I feel being able to use my tablet is indescribable. I feel connected with the world again and it brings me great joy." -Bridget, Cork

These words come from Bridget, an older person who has been improving her digital skills through our COVID-safe, remote tutoring programme: Getting Started KIT (GS KIT). 

Over the last 18 months, GS KIT has been a crucial resource for keeping older people connected to their loved ones and families during periods of social isolation. We are so proud to report that since the advent of COVID, our volunteers have provided over 3,300 hours of tutoring to over 650 learners, with 7,000+ hard-copy how-to guides posted out to self-guided learners. 

Our online materials are very popular and our wonderful volunteers are continuing to support our remote classes. Many of our volunteers are coming from the corporate sector through their CSR programme and we are working with over 25 corporates currently.

We have also realised that providing a remote option for this programme allows us to reach many more people than we were able to through our face-to-face tutoring alone. This autumn, we'll be beginning our plans for restarting face-to-face classes around the country, while also developing plans to continue remote classes. We'd love to support as many learners as possible in improving their digital skills!

We are looking to update our materials and to add to the suite of training resources available to the public.

Your continued support is vital and we are so appreciative of the good will and commitment that corporate volunteers have shown through these times. 

Links:

• Getting Started Keep In Touch