Tag: adults

Ireland’s Age-Friendly AI Training Programme Launches in Cavan

The Age-Friendly AI training programme, Ireland’s National Artificial Intelligence Literacy Initiative for Older Adults, was officially launched at Johnston Central Library in the Farnham Centre in Cavan on Monday. The programme is delivered by researchers from Technological University Dublin and the ADAPT Research Ireland Centre. Funded by Research Ireland, the initiative will roll out in public libraries across Ireland throughout 2026 in partnership with Libraries Ireland, managed by the Local Government Management Agency.

Age-Friendly AI was developed in partnership with older adults and leading ageing-focused organisations across Ireland. This training programme follows a year-long public dialogue exploring their hopes, concerns and expectations regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in everyday life. Accompanying resources and training materials for librarians and other educators will support lifelong learning in their communities.

Speaking about the launch, Minister of State with responsibility for trade promotion, artificial intelligence and digital transformation, Niamh Smyth TD said:

“As technology accelerates, we must ensure our progress is measured not just by the speed of innovation, but by its inclusivity. No citizen should be left behind in the wake of advancement. That is why the work being done through ADAPT’s Age-Friendly AI programme is so vital, it bridges the generational divide, ensuring that the rewards of AI are accessible, equitable, and empowering for everyone, regardless of age. I was delighted to work alongside the team at ADAPT to arrange for the Launch of Phase 2 of the Age-Friendly AI project held in Johnston Library, Cavan, and wish the project continued success.”

Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development for the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) said, 

“Libraries Ireland is proud to support the Age Friendly AI initiative as part of our national Skills for Life programme. Libraries are trusted, welcoming spaces at the heart of every community and play a vital role in ensuring learning is inclusive and accessible as society evolves. Already this year, we have seen Age Friendly AI engagements in libraries across several counties, and over the rest of 2026, libraries across Ireland will host a national rollout of the programme. Ultimately, this is about ensuring older people are part of the conversation on AI, giving them the time, support and confidence to engage at their own pace.”

Dr Emma Clarke from the ADAPT Centre said,

“Ongoing dialogue, enabled by the #DiscussAI national conversation on Artificial Intelligence, is at the very heart of this programme. By listening to older people from the outset, we ensure that the individuals this training aims to reach are actively involved at every stage of the process. This collaborative approach ensures that the programme is relevant and resonates with the real-life experiences and needs of older adults across Ireland.”

Paula Kelly, Age-Friendly AI Lead at TU Dublin, added:

“We are delighted to be partnering with the LGMA, Libraries Ireland, under their Skills for Life programme, as well as over twenty other community partners, to bring this training to every corner of the country. The Age-Friendly AI initiative isn’t just about teaching AI technology; it’s about making sure older adults aren’t left behind as AI becomes part of our everyday products and services, from healthcare to banking to staying in touch with family.”

The launch event began with an introductory workshop on artificial intelligence (AI) delivered by Paula Kelly. Participants explored what AI is, where it appears in daily life and how it is shaping areas such as healthcare, banking and communication. The session also examined both the benefits and potential risks of AI and allowed attendees to try AI tools in a supportive, hands-on environment.

The event also featured remarks from Paula Butler, Assistant Chief Executive and Head of Local Government Strategy, Research and Communications at the Local Government Management Agency, who highlighted the role of libraries in supporting community learning and digital inclusion.

Following the formal launch, attendees tried out interactive demonstrations, including “Spirit of Radio,” a vintage radio with a modern AI twist; an “Art or AI?” exhibit that challenged participants to distinguish between human-created and AI-generated artwork; and a voice-activated smart lamp.

The Age-Friendly AI training programme will continue to roll out in libraries across Ireland throughout 2026, providing accessible, community-based opportunities for older adults to learn about and experiment with artificial intelligence technologies. No previous knowledge of AI is necessary.

For updates on upcoming workshops and programme developments, members of the public can sign up to the Age-Friendly AI newsletter.

One in Three Older Adults Feel Digitally Excluded

New European research conducted by the Vodafone Foundation among people aged 55+ in Ireland reveals that while daily device use is now widespread among older adults, many lack the confidence and support needed to fully engage in an increasingly digital world.
The survey, carried out in November 2025 across six European countries, was designed to inform the Vodafone Foundation’s Hi Digital programme and explore how older adults access and use digital devices, what barriers they face and how they seek support.
 The research shows that over 90% of respondents now use a digital device every day. However, 22% say they do not have anyone to turn to when they need help.
 Online safety is a major worry, with 72% of respondents concerned about being scammed or tricked online, significantly more than the global average of 55%, while one in four (25%) admit they do not know how to protect themselves, again higher than the global average of 18%.
 Despite high levels of concern, just 18% say they have experienced a bad online incident, on par with the European average, indicating that the fear may be greater than the reality.
 Feeling Left Behind in a Digital World
The findings also highlight the social implications of digital exclusion:
·         35% feel excluded in social situations when services are digital-only
·         51% stated that they don’t understand how certain apps or websites work
·         91% are open to learning digital skills
When it comes to areas where digital skills are most needed, respondents cited topics like Finance and Travel but said that Public Services were their top priority.

Supporting Older Adults and the Sandwich Generation 

This new research also highlights the important role played by the so-called Sandwich Generation; adults in their 40s to 60s who support older relatives with digital tools, communication and online security, while also caring for younger family members.

 With 46% of respondents preferring to learn from friends and family, intergenerational support remains a critical enabler of digital inclusion.

Closing the Confidence Gap in Ireland

Research conducted in 2022 by Deloitte for Vodafone Foundation found that only 19% of older adults in Ireland were digitally literate. Three years later, this latest study shows that while access has grown rapidly, confidence and skills may not have kept pace.

 To address this gap, Vodafone Foundation has developed the Hi Digital programme, a free, step-by-step online course designed to support those who need help developing digital skills, particularly aimed at individuals aged 65+ who may have rarely or never been online.
 To date, over 170,000 older adults have engaged with Hi Digital since its launch in 2021, through the online courses, in-person training, and drop-in sessions available in participating Vodafone stores on Friday mornings, from 10:00-13:00. The programme has now evolved into a free nationwide support programme, combining digital lessons, quick-tip videos, in-store guidance, and collaboration with community organisations delivering local digital inclusion initiatives to help older adults build confidence in everyday life.
 Participants can complete the online course independently or with support from family and volunteer tutors. The programme is also delivered in partnership with organisations, such as Friends of the Elderly, ALONE and Society of St Vincent de Paul, as well as through intergenerational initiatives like the Irish Girl Guides and Transition Year programmes in secondary schools nationwide.
 Recognising that access alone is not enough, Vodafone Foundation is also providing practical support to help older adults navigate essential online services. For instance, there is an instructional video demonstrating how to use the Transport for Ireland app, supporting older people to confidently integrate digital tools into their everyday lives.
 Since April 2025, the most popular Hi Digital module is the Introduction to the internet course, followed by Using My Smartphone, with Connecting with Others and Identifying Frauds and Scams close behind. Notably, RIP.ie is currently one of the most visited pages on the Hi Digital platform, reflecting the practical ways older adults are engaging online.
 Speaking about the findings, Liz Roche, Head of Vodafone Foundation in Ireland, said:
“This research shows that while older adults are using digital devices every day, many still lack confidence and feel vulnerable online. No one should feel excluded from essential services or social connections because they don’t feel digitally confident. Through the Hi Digital initiative, we have already supported over 170,000 and our ambition is to extend the reach and keep growing, empowering older people across Ireland with the skills and confidence they need to engage safely and independently in today’s digital world. We are also encouraging families and communities to play their part in supporting loved ones on their digital journey.”
 Drop-In Fridays
In 2023, the programme expanded to include in-person support through a nationwide Drop-In Friday’s initiative in Vodafone stores. Held every Friday from 10am to 1 pm, trained Hi Digital Ambassadors provide free, personalised support with phones and tablets.
Due to strong demand, the service has now expanded to 58 Vodafone stores nationwide. For those unable to attend in person, the free online course at hidigital.ie remains available 24/7.
 For more information go to hidigital.ie

Three-Quarters of Adults Want AI & Coding Taught in Schools

A new national survey commissioned by STEM South West, the not-for-profit organisation promoting STEM education and careers, shows there is strong public support for preparing the next generation with the skills needed to succeed in a changing world.

Three-quarters of adults believe coding and AI literacy should be taught in schools, with junior secondary (12-15 years) seen as the ideal stage. Young adults strongly favour early AI education, while older adults and lower-income groups are more likely to prefer optional learning.

These results come on the back of the STEM South West Awards 2025, held last night at Cork County Hall, which celebrated excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) (See Winners list below). The awards recognise individuals and organisations whose achievements drive innovation, education, and community engagement in the STEM sector across the South West region, which collectively employs over 75,000 people in STEM-related industries.

Mary Good, Managing Director of Advanced Medical Services and Chair of STEM South West, commented,
“This latest research shows that AI is at the forefront of our times, and there is strong demand for adoption in school. There’s a recognition that young people must be equipped with the skills to thrive in this new digital landscape. Tonight’s awards showcase the people and organisations who are already leading the way in preparing our next generation for the opportunities and challenges ahead.”

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Ms. Good added,

“This evening is all about celebration and recognition. It is also a time for us to reflect on what we have achieved in the past year and embrace the many opportunities of the future, while recognising the rapidly evolving global landscape and its challenges. Our AI & Future skills survey throws a focus on the opportunity for growth in education across Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths as we prepare and adapt to changing demands in the workplace.”

Reflecting on both the survey findings and the achievements recognised at the STEM South West Awards, Mary Good added:

“These results show that the adoption and education of our students with AI skills is critical. It’s a call to action for educators, policymakers, and industry to work together to future-proof Ireland’s workforce.”

Key insights from the STEM South West AI & Future Skills survey:

  • Support for AI education cuts across demographics, with 75% of adults overall backing the introduction of coding and AI literacy in schools, even among groups most worried about changing job descriptions as a result of AI progression.
  • Younger adults show a pragmatic outlook, with 79% of 18-24-year-olds concerned about job security with advances in AI, yet a strong majority supporting the teaching of coding and AI skills in schools, particularly at junior secondary level (12-15 years).

STEM South West Awards 2025 Winners

STEM in Industry: Company of the Year
The award celebrates organisations creating a proactive, inclusive, and supportive environment for STEM, both internally and through outreach initiatives:

  • Small/Startup (up to 50 Employees): CompuCal Calibration Solutions
  • Small to Medium (50 – 249 Employees): MACOM
  • Large (250+ Employees): Analog Devices

STEM in Education: Educational Initiative of the Year
Recognises educational institutes, departments, and classroom-led initiatives that foster inclusive STEM learning:

  • Primary Level: Firies National School, Killarney
  • Secondary Level: Coláiste Muire Crosshaven
  • Third Level: STEM Teacher Internship Programme

STEM in the Community:

  • Best Expo Exhibitor (Large): Johnson & Johnson
  • Best Expo Exhibitor (Small): Reliance
  • Inspirational STEM Volunteer of the Year: Shane Ruddle, Gilead
  • STEM Initiative of the Year Award: Scoil Mhuire Junior School, Cork

STEM Person of the Year: Michael Loftus, MTU

Patrick Doyle, South West Regional Manager, IDA and member of the judging panel, said:
“Congratulations to STEM South West and all of the finalists and winners for their commitment of time, expertise, and resources in support of STEM skills development and education. Their efforts will provide opportunity for the next generation and future-proof the talent pipeline to sustain the long-term success of STEM industries across the South West region.”

Irish Girl Guides providing community learning for empowering older adults with digital skills

To celebrate and honour the older adults in our community, Irish Girl Guide members are teaching digital skills. This past week, Leaders from 10 new Units across Ireland joined a growing cohort of Hi Digital trained Members.

In total, 30 Units are ready to work with older people on the island, which include 60 Leaders and 402 Guides (10-14 y.o.) and Senior Branch (14-30 y.o.).

Since Irish Girl Guides started the partnership with Vodafone Foundation, over 2,000 older people have learned new skills, and this number will continue to expand.

The members learned about some of the barriers older adults face in navigating the digital landscape and how they can help combat social and digital isolation through the Hi Digital programme in partnership with the Vodafone Foundation.

The Units host sessions in their community centres, in parish churches, in Men’s and Women’s Sheds and Active Retirement Groups. Hi Digital sessions last one to two hours and the older adults get a chance not only to learn new skills but also to chat over a cup of tea or a mug of soup.

Learning digital skills is not just about understanding the step-by-step instructions but building confidence and skills towards a more independent life. This is achieved through comprehensive education that demonstrates not just how singular apps work but through universal symbols and recognizable instructions while supporting the growing confidence in the older adult.

One older participant said, “I feel more at ease, knowing that much more about my phone”. While the Irish Girl Guides grow into confident Leaders, they are also helping show the older adult’s new ways to lead more independent lives as they navigate their phones. As one Clogherhead Senior Branch member highlighted, “it was really great for our personal growth but also our community growth”.

Watch this video to see the Hi Digital programme in action!

To see more about Hi Digital check out www.hidigital.ie and for more about the Irish Girl Guides go to www.irishgirlguides.ie

New survey reveals misuse of modern fridges in Irish homes

New research has revealed some chilling truths about how Irish households are misusing their fridge. A nationwide survey of 1,000 Irish adults, commissioned by the Home of Innovation, shows it’s time to rethink our fridge habits.

Findings reveal that a staggering 71% of respondents admit to wasting food every week, with the annual cost of this waste reaching an eye-watering €696 per household. 51% of respondents store dairy products on the bottom shelf, an area intended for raw meat because of its colder temperature.

Worse still, 28% keep dairy products in the fridge door, the most temperature-unstable zone, where frequent openings can quickly cause products to go off.

The problems extend beyond the fridge. Nearly half (45%) of those surveyed have discarded spoiled food due to confusion or misuse of their freezers. Air exposure is a major culprit—if food isn’t properly packaged, air can seep in and cause dehydration. Opting for airtight containers and freezer-safe wrapping is essential.

Furthermore, nearly three in four (70%) Irish households are unaware that their fridge and freezer could be responsible for up to a fifth of their total energy costs highlighting the need for both appliance maintenance and timely upgrading to more energy-efficient models for long-term savings.

Finally, while fridges are designed to keep food fresh, many are now doubling as beauty cabinets. An eye-opening 39% of Irish adults admit to storing non-food items such as eye masks, face cream, nail polish, and even toothpaste in their fridges.

Commenting on the findings, Brian McMenamin, Director, BSH Ireland, Home of Innovation, said: “We are passionate about showcasing the latest product innovations because it’s vital that customers feel empowered to get the best out of their appliances. Our research uncovered many common trends are costing Irish households, but with the right appliances and a few small tweaks, lower energy bills and less food waste could be at your fingertips!”

Home of Innovation’s Top Fridge Organisation Tips:

 

  1. The top shelf tends to have the most consistent temperature, but it’s not the coldest part of the fridge so it’s ideal for leftovers, dairy products like milk yogurt and cheese.
  2. Keep your cooked meats, deli items and hummus on the middle shelf.
  3. Raw meat, fish, or poultry should always go on the bottom shelf to prevent drips and contamination.
  4. Fridge Door is the warmest part of the fridge, so best for storing condiments like ketchup, mustard, mayo, jams, hot sauces.
  5. Most modern fridges have crisper drawers designed to control humidity and airflow so put them to use and maintain the freshness of fruits and vegetables.
  6. First in, first out – try to rotate older items to the front as a reminder to use them.
  7. Don’t overfill – air needs to circulate for proper cooling.
  8. Keep fridge at 4°C – that’s the ideal chilling temperature.

Home of Innovation showcases leading appliances from Bosch, Siemens, and NEFF designed with both energy efficiency and real-life kitchen habits in mind. These appliances tackle the common storage challenges effortlessly by maximising every cooling opportunity. Features like multi-airflow systems ensure consistent temperature control, while clearly labelled zones help organise contents with ease. Fish and meat receive special treatment in dedicated compartments chilled to as low as 0°C for optimal freshness.

Models such as the Bosch French Door Bottom Freezer offer XXL storage and clever compartments such as VitaFresh drawers to keep food fresher for longer – ideal for large households.

For a built-in option with extra room to spare, the NEFF N70 Fridge Freezer (381-litre XXL size) offers significantly more space than a standard larder. With adjustable shelving and dedicated zones for fresh produce, meat, and fish, it ensures everything stays organised and fresh – no more dairy disasters

The Siemens iQ300 Free-standing Fridge Freezer combines intelligent SuperCooling with an inverter compressor that adapts to both internal and external temperatures, keeping groceries at their best.

To discover more cooling products from leading kitchen brands visit the Home of Innovation website to schedule your free expert guided consultation.

Dell Technologies collaborates with Crann Centre to harness AI for social good

Dell Technologies has today announced that it has teamed up with the Crann Centre, a Cork-based charity, to develop an AI-powered solution that enhances care for children, adults and families living with neuro-physical disabilities. This collaboration has resulted in the development of a bespoke AI-powered intake application that reduces the administrative burden on Crann staff, streamlines intake processes, and enhances organisational efficiencies and service delivery.

The collaboration began as a local volunteering connection, and it has since evolved into a relationship that harnesses the power of AI to support how care is delivered to families living with neuro-physical disabilities. Dell Technologies’ Global Presales team worked closely with Crann to streamline their intake process, reducing processing time by 33%, enhancing data capture, and improving the overall experience for families.

The solution has transformed how Crann performs its client intake appointments, improving the consistency and quality of data captured. The final step, currently in progress, will be the full integration of the app with Crann’s Salesforce system to ensure a single and reliable data source.

With fewer administrative burdens, the Crann team can now devote more time to delivering personalised support, strengthening relationships, and improving care outcomes. This collaboration is a testament to how AI can be used for societal good, increasing Crann’s capacity to serve more families without requiring additional resources.

Speaking about the collaboration Des O’Sullivan, Vice President, Dell Technologies Customer Solution Centres said “At Dell Technologies, we believe innovation truly matters when it drives meaningful change in people’s lives. Through a shared commitment of making a difference, our team at Dell Technologies collaborated with Crann to develop an AI-powered solution keeping in mind Crann’s deep-rooted commitment to family-centred wraparound care.

“With the AI-powered solution that our team helped to create, Crann has increased capacity, allowing them to serve more families than requiring additional resources. The benefits extend far beyond efficiency; Crann team members now have the time and space to focus on deep, meaningful interactions with clients and their families, strengthening emotional and practical support.

“As we look to the future, we’re proud of what has been achieved. Our Dell Technologies team in Ireland and our broader Global Presales team has been at the heart of this journey, bringing Dell’s AI innovation to life in a way that delivers real and lasting value to our community partners.”

The Dell-built solution is designed with future scalability in mind, offering a framework that can be adapted across sectors such as education and customer service.

Crann, which offers wraparound services focused on improving independence and wellbeing, now has increased capacity to deliver support that spans generations underpinned by a shared commitment to personalised care and innovation.

Modern AI chatbots: Roleplay for adults

Every roleplayer knows that it’s quite hard to find a decent co-player who is always available and willing to play along with your fantasies. That’s when NSFW AI roleplay chats can help you a lot, because they’re basically created to become your perfect roleplay tool, bringing all your spicy fantasies to life. No judgment, no neglect, no waiting – just pure fun. To try roleplay AI chat bot NSFW, you don’t need to wait for anyone or to get their approval. So, why using an NSFW RP bot is a good idea?

Judgement-free exploration

An NSFW AI RP chat provides a completely judgement-free environment where you can freely express your thoughts, desires, and specific kinks without fear of criticism, embarrassment, or misunderstanding. Unlike real people, AI chatbots have no biases or personal boundaries, allowing you to explore your imagination as deeply as you wish. This lack of judgment makes it easier to discuss topics that you may feel hesitant to share with others, creating a space where you can be your true self. Additionally, the more open you feel, the more satisfying and fulfilling the roleplay experience becomes, encouraging personal growth and deeper creative exploration.

Fully customizable co-players

One of the most appealing aspects of AI chatbots is their ability to be tailored to your specific preferences. You can fine-tune their personality traits, tone of communication, emotional responses, and even the way they express affection or excitement. This customization ensures that every interaction feels more genuine, as if you are talking to someone who truly understands you. Furthermore, being able to mold the AI’s personality allows you to explore different scenarios and conversational styles, providing an endlessly versatile experience. Whether you prefer a caring and gentle partner or a playful and teasing one, an NSFW AI roleplay chat can adapt to your desires, making roleplay sessions feel more natural and engaging.

Always available, anytime

Unlike real people who have their own schedules, personal needs, and emotional states, AI chatbots are accessible whenever you need them. Whether it’s early in the morning, late at night, or during a lunch break, your AI partner is always ready to engage in meaningful conversations or roleplay scenarios. This availability removes the frustration of conflicting schedules or waiting for someone to be in the mood to interact. With AI chatbots, you’re in complete control of when, where, and how you engage, allowing you to enjoy immersive experiences whenever the mood strikes. Additionally, this constant availability can provide a comforting sense of companionship and stability.

Boosts creativity and imagination

The AI’s adaptability and responsiveness allow you to test various ideas, experiment with new concepts, and even build elaborate storylines without feeling rushed or judged. As the AI learns from your preferences and adjusts accordingly, it can help you explore uncharted aspects of your imagination, making each interaction feel fresh and exciting. Just keep in mind that a free NSFW AI roleplay chat can be limited, which can kill the mood – so the premium ones are preferable.

Private and secure interactions

Privacy is a significant concern when it comes to discussing personal thoughts, desires, or fantasies. AI chatbots offer a secure, confidential space where you can be completely open without worrying about judgment or betrayal. Since AI chatbots are designed to respect your privacy, you can freely express yourself without the fear of someone using your words against you or leaking your conversations. This assurance of privacy helps build trust and allows you to explore your imagination with total peace of mind. For those who are cautious about sharing intimate thoughts with others, AI chatbots can provide a comfortable alternative.

Rethink Ireland and Vodafone Foundation Launch €540,000 Fund to Help Bridge the Digital Divide for Older Adults in Ireland

Nearly half (46%) of persons aged over 75 years had never used the internet according to CSO (2021). To help bridge this digital divide, Rethink Ireland and the Vodafone Foundation have launched the €540,000 “Hi Digital Fund”.

This two-year fund will support five innovative organisations that are providing services for older adults aged 65 and above to develop essential digital skills. Applications for the fund are open from today (14 April) and close on 26 May 2025. Applications can be made here Hi Digital Fund – Rethink Ireland

The fund will provide cash grants and business supports for social innovations that enhance digital literacy and inclusion for older adults in their community, bridging Ireland’s digital skills gap. It promotes innovative approaches to ensure no one is left behind, teaching essential skills like smartphone use, e-health and smart home tech.

The Hi Digital Fund has been created by Rethink Ireland – the funding body thinking differently to create a more just, equal and sustainable Ireland – and is supported by the Vodafone Foundation, private donors and Department of Rural and Community Development via the Dormant Accounts Fund.

“Digital exclusion is a silent crisis affecting thousands of older adults across Ireland.” said Deirdre Mortell, CEO of Rethink Ireland. “Through the Hi Digital Fund, we’re not just teaching tech skills—we’re reconnecting people to essential services, reducing isolation, and enabling independent aging. This fund represents a critical investment in ensuring no older person is left behind in our increasingly digital society.”

Head of Vodafone Foundation, Liz Roche stated: “At Vodafone Foundation, we believe that everyone, regardless of age or ability, should have access to the digital world. By funding Rethink Ireland,  we will grow to support five new organisations across Ireland so that they have the resources to help older adults improve digital literacy skills and online confidence. We’re dedicated to reaching even more isolated people and making technology accessible for all”.

Also supporting the launch, Roisin Mills, Programme and Training Commissioner from the Irish Girl Guides said: “At Irish Girl Guides, we believe in creating an equal and inclusive world for all. We are proud to partner with the Vodafone Foundation to deliver the Hi Digital programme, an initiative designed to empower older people with essential, real-world digital skills. Through this experience, not only our youth members are helping others to grow in confidence and ability, but they are also developing invaluable personal skills themselves, including communication, empathy, patience, and leadership”

This fund will support diverse community initiatives and sustainable digital literacy programmes that remove barriers for older people who are unfamiliar with the digital world. The Vodafone Foundation will donate €250,000 over two years, with an additional €20,000 from private donors, totalling €270,000. The Department of Rural and Community Development will match this amount via the Dormant Accounts Fund, resulting in a total fund of €540,000.

Irish Girl Guides and Vodafone Foundation tackle digital exclusion for older adults

On the occasion of World Social Justice Day, Irish Girl Guides want to highlight that social inclusion extends to older adults, a group often overlooked in society. In a world where digital connectivity is essential, Irish Girl Guides is tackling this challenge head-on with the Hi Digital Programme in partnership with the Vodafone Foundation.

Since 2023, Irish Girl Guides has trained over 3 500 older adults across Ireland, helping them navigate the digital world with confidence and security. Through the Hi Digital Programme, 50 Irish Girl Guides Units have been trained as Digital Champions. Guides, Senior Branch members, and Leaders dedicate their time to teaching older adults how to access online services, stay connected with loved ones, and protect themselves from scams and fraud.

The programme fosters intergenerational learning, breaking down barriers and strengthening social ties between younger and older generations. This initiative takes on social exclusion by empowering older adults, reducing isolation, and providing a sense of connection in an increasingly digital world.

Jessica Woods, Leader from Cuchulain Guides Unit and Chair of the Irish Girl Guides Communications Committee, said: “Our Unit ran an event, and a Guide was able to teach a Grandmother how to record and send voice notes on WhatsApp. She ‘tested it’ by sending a message to her granddaughter in Australia. A few minutes later she received a reply and she said it was like getting a ‘virtual hug’. Hi Digital can help open the world to an older person.”

 

To have a better idea of the programme, watch these two videos:

More Vodafone news

For more information about Hi Digital, visit: Welcome to Hi Digital