Tag: #support

Understanding ADHD Diagnosis in Ireland: A Guide to Support and Care

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is experienced by people internationally, within and outside of Ireland. If you are considering seeking an ADHD diagnosis in Ireland, you may wonder how to go about it. This post provides a rundown of exactly what the pathway to a diagnosis entails, as well as help and treatment options available to you and your loved ones.

If you are a parent with concerns about your child’s attention span and behaviour or an adult seeking more insight on how to manage ADHD symptoms in your life, being informed on what’s involved in an ADHD evaluation is the first step on your road to empowerment. Understand the symptoms of ADHD, how to prepare for a diagnosis in the Irish system, and effectively manage symptoms for the best treatment for ADHD Ireland has to offer.

Recognising the Signs of ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects people in many ways. Some become overactive or impulsive, whilst others struggle to maintain composure when focusing attention or staying organised. Other symptoms include concerns with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While some symptoms begin in youth, with symptoms typically found in school, the condition can continue into adulthood and impact the remainder of their lives, i.e., impacting their work or relationships.

If you or your child consistently struggles with attention, time management, forgetfulness or getting things in order, perhaps it’s time to consider an assessment for ADHD. The sooner it is identified, the better the opportunity to access support and learn strategies to manage difficulties.

The Process of ADHD Diagnosis in Ireland

Navigating the healthcare system to obtain an ADHD diagnosis in Ireland is relatively simple once you know how. Most people will start by visiting a General Practitioner (GP), who will be able to advise on the process, and refer you to the appropriate specialist. If children have experienced problems at school, then it might be their teacher or a school psychologist who first suggests an evaluation by a specialist.

Experts who can diagnose ADHD are often psychiatrists or clinical psychologists, due to the training required to officially diagnose the condition. In addition to this, regulated and safe platforms like HealthHero.ie can provide online consultations to help provide clarity on next steps, and give families the reassurance they need to move forward with the process.

How ADHD is Managed in Ireland

An ADHD diagnosis tends to open a new door: one of solutions and strategies for managing symptoms, through therapy, medication and lifestyle changes that can boost focus and impulse control. In most cases, management includes a combination of solutions that are right for the given individual:

Medication: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications are often prescribed to help manage symptoms, improve concentration, and decrease impulsiveness. Medications can be mixed and adjusted as needed over time with the help of a healthcare provider.

Therapy and Skills Training: Talking therapies and teaching new skills can help on your side of things. A trained therapist can teach you more about time-keeping, organisation and reducing procrastination. They may use treatment programming to help counter some of the cognitive processing issues experienced when making decisions.

Lifestyle Changes: Keeping a routine, eating healthy food, and sticking to a sleep schedule can help with the symptoms of ADHD. Kids with ADHD should have a limited amount of choices, making it easier to organise and structure environments or routines at home and school for children with ADHD to follow, and adults benefit greatly from things like task planners with date books or apps that can provide help in managing tasks and responsibilities.

Many healthcare providers provide resources and advice specifically targeting ADHD that go well beyond medicine and talk therapy to provide broader support that can help with symptom control.

How an ADHD Diagnosis Can Empower You

For many people, a diagnosis of ADHD is an exciting and life-changing thing. It can give you answers, relief and information that you would never have otherwise had. You can take what you learn about yourself and use that information to help yourself and put tools and strategies in place to manage your ADHD.

Learning that ADHD is behind certain challenges will also give you some insight into your strengths. Many people with ADHD are very resilient; they are often highly creative and have fantastic problem-solving skills. By doing therapy and making lifestyle changes that are catered to you ranging from the people around you to your home and environment, you can use those skills to live an even more satisfying and fulfilling life.

Navigating the Healthcare System for ADHD Support

In Ireland, you receive a diagnosis and support for ADHD through the public health system, which is called the Health Service Executive (HSE). You can expect to wait sometime for the initial appointment with the relevant specialist, as waiting lists tend to be long. But here is help available that can give you an appraisal of whether your child might have ADHD and care until you receive a diagnosis.

Some families can also opt for an assessment in the private sector to avoid waiting times and start interventions as quickly as possible. Even though this is more costly, getting the appropriate interventions early on can make a huge difference not only for the child or teen but also for the entire family.

Finding Support After an ADHD Diagnosis

With a diagnosis of ADHD, having the right support set up is essential. In Ireland, there are Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) in schools equipped to help children with ADHD get the right support where education is concerned. For adults, support in the workplace, at home and in their personal life is available.

Therapists who specialise in ADHD can help work through the practicalities of coming to terms with and managing the sleep-deprived frustration that comes with ADHD, as well as putting in place strategies for bolstering organisational skills, time management and relationships. Friends and family will also play a key role though, so being able to discuss your diagnosis and what it means is likely to put them in the best place to provide the help you need.

With an understanding of the ADHD diagnosis process in Ireland you will be well-placed to live your best, most balanced life, knowing where to turn for the support you need. Equally, if you know someone you care about is struggling with ADHD — whether during childhood or adulthood — you can take your concerns to your GP or simply head to HealthHero.ie to find your way to the help and advice you need.

Why TVCMALL is Your Top Choice for Wholesale Cellphone Cases and Bulk Purchases

In today’s fast-paced market, retailers need a reliable wholesaler with a strong supply chain to keep up with consumer demand for mobile accessories. TVCMALL stands out as a leading wholesaler for phone cases bulk purchases, offering a comprehensive selection, competitive pricing, and valuable support services that make bulk purchasing both easy and profitable.

1.Wide Range of Phone Cases in Bulk

TVCMALL provides retailers access to over 1 million unique SKUs in wholesale cellphone cases and accessories, covering styles such as clear, leather, silicone, and rugged cases. With 100,000 new items added weekly, businesses can stay on top of trends and cater to varied customer preferences. From sleek, clear phone cases bulk options for iPhones to durable, protective cases for active users, TVCMALL ensures that retailers can meet every type of demand with a diverse inventory.

 

  1. Competitive, Factory-Direct Pricing

TVCMALL’s competitive pricing is enabled by direct partnerships with over 3,000 factories and suppliers in their vast supply chain. This network allows TVCMALL to offer factory-direct pricing on all wholesale cellphone cases, giving businesses a chance to maximize profit margins while providing customers with affordable products. By purchasing phone cases bulk, retailers benefit from significant per-unit savings, and frequent discounts make TVCMALL a cost-effective choice for businesses of all sizes.

 

  1. Customization Options to Stand Out

Customization is a growing fashion in the phone case industry. Consumers love including a non-public contact to their smartphone cases, whether through their names, initials, or creative designs. To help businesses differentiate in a crowded market, TVCMALL offers both OEM and ODM services for phone cases bulk. Retailers can add brand logos, create unique designs, or even develop fully custom cases that align with their brand identity. These customizable wholesale cellphone cases add value for customers and boost repeat sales, making TVCMALL an ideal partner for retailers looking to offer something unique.

 

  1. Reliable Shipping and Global Supply Chain Reach

With a highly efficient supply chain that delivers to over 200 countries and serves 1.5 million users worldwide, TVCMALL guarantees reliable and timely shipping for phone cases bulk orders. Whether a retailer is based in North America, Europe, or elsewhere, TVCMALL’s dependable logistics ensure smooth order fulfillment. This robust supply chain minimizes stock disruptions, allowing businesses to keep up with demand and stay competitive.

 

  1. High-Quality, Certified Products

Quality is a priority for TVCMALL. Every certified item in their wholesale cellphone cases catalog undergoes thorough inspections by experienced quality control teams at partnered factories. Each product comes with a certification report, providing retailers and their customers with confidence in product durability and safety. Whether it’s premium clear cases that resist yellowing or eco-friendly materials, TVCMALL’s rigorous quality control promotes customer satisfaction and encourages repeat purchases.

 

  1. Value-Added Services and Personalized Support

As a comprehensive wholesaler, TVCMALL goes beyond product sales by offering a suite of value-added services to support business growth. These services include custom labeling, packaging, warehousing, API integration, and factory audits—all designed to streamline operations and enhance product presentation. TVCMALL also provides one-on-one customer service, assigning a dedicated representative to each client to assist with everything from placing phone cases bulk orders to tracking shipments. This personalized support helps businesses thrive and maximizes the value of a partnership with TVCMALL.

 

Top Benefits of Buying Clear iPhone Cases in Bulk

Clear iPhone cases remain popular among consumers for their minimalist design and essential protection. Sourcing these wholesale cellphone cases in bulk from TVCMALL offers multiple advantages, including competitive pricing, high-quality materials that prevent yellowing, and options from trusted brands like Torras and MOFI. By stocking up on clear iPhone cases bulk and other popular styles, retailers can attract a broad customer base while boosting profit margins.

 

Conclusion

If you’re looking to boost your online sales, partnering with a professional B2B wholesaler like TVCMALL is the key to success. With over 1 million products, competitive factory-direct pricing, a reliable supply chain for fast global shipping, and comprehensive value-added services, TVCMALL empowers retailers to meet customer demands and thrive in a competitive market. Take your business to the next level—request a quote today and discover the benefits of working with an industry-leading B2B wholesaler.

The Role of Technology in Modernizing Senior Skilled Care

Technology is impacting almost every aspect of life, including senior care. Therefore, people with aging parents or loved ones should understand the role of technology in senior care and how they can use it to improve the quality of life for seniors.

With the high number of elderly citizens and longer life expectancy, caregivers can use technology to ensure seniors are healthy and independent. Seniors can use technology for entertainment, security, education, medical care, and more, depending on the unique needs of the seniors. This article will discuss the role of technology in senior care and how it can improve the golden years.

Access to Medical Support and Care

Health providers and caregivers use technology to diagnose and treat seniors in medical facilities. But technology goes beyond the walls of the hospitals. They can also use smartwatches that help monitor heart rate, pulse rate, temperature, and calories burned. Some smartwatches have fall detectors that alert caregivers or emergency teams for quick emergency response.

Telemedicine is another groundbreaking technology that improves access to healthcare for seniors. Seniors can consult a medical specialist remotely using tech devices such as mobile apps and video calls. This reduces the need to visit medical facilities regularly for examination and treatment.

Seniors who need skilled nursing services can use their smartphones to research and find the best providers, ask questions, schedule appointments, and consult senior care experts. Therefore, technology has improved access to medical care and support for seniors.

Communication and Social Connection

Seniors want to stay connected with their peers, friends, family, and community. However, as they age, they might be unable to visit their friends or attend social events as often as they did when they were younger.

Modern technology provides innovative devices and tools, such as smartphones and tablets, which seniors can use to contact their friends and stay connected. They can also watch community events in the comfort of their apartment, which fosters a sense of belonging.

Social media and messaging apps installed on mobile devices can help seniors access the latest news and activities that affect their quality of life. So, older people do not feel isolated or lonely because they engage in community events through social media, telephone calls, video calls, and messaging apps.

Monitoring Seniors to Ensure Safety

Seniors want to live independently but require monitoring to lower the chances of accidents and injuries. Caregivers and family members can use devices such as smartphones and GPS devices to know where the senior is at every moment and save them from potential hazards.

Senior living communities invest in security cameras, access control devices, alarm systems, and smoke detectors to prevent accidents or criminal activities that could affect senior care and well-being.

Some install smart sensors in different locations to detect abnormalities or hazards as the seniors walk around, thus ensuring safety while maintaining independence. Fall detection technology and emergency buttons can also alert caregivers when seniors need assistance.

Support and Training for Caregivers

Caregivers might encounter challenges when handling unique cases at home or in assisted living. They can use mobile devices to research how to handle the situation or contact experienced caregivers for guidance.

Caregivers can install educational apps and join relevant forums to learn from peers and experts. Continuous learning and support ensure caregivers are informed about the latest senior care trends to avoid making mistakes.

Technology is a game changer in protecting seniors’ health and ensuring they are safe and comfortable. So, caregivers and families with seniors should integrate technology to reap the benefits of the latest technologies. They must also research and consult other caregivers to stay updated and offer the best senior care

What to Look for in a Custom Manufacturing Partner

If you want to start a business that sells physical products, you need to find a supplier or a custom manufacturing partner. A custom manufacturing partner is a company that engineers and produces products for clients. These companies and their clients design products together, so finding the right custom manufacturing partner is important. A large amount of collaboration is guaranteed, so it’s important to find a partner you can work comfortably with. This post will tell you about the qualities you need to look for in a custom manufacturing partner.

Tailored Manufacturing

You need to find a manufacturing partner that’s able to manufacture products that are tailored to your needs and specifications. According to this manufacturer, exceptional quality and adaptable production are also important.  Something to note about tailored manufacturing is that while many companies claim to offer it, not all do. You need to be confident that the products your partner produces for you are entirely unique and not just slightly altered versions of products they either sell themselves or produce for other companies. Having your own unique products is important in business, as otherwise, nobody is going to want to buy them.

Quality Products

Quality products are arguably just as important as tailored manufacturing. No matter what type of product you are selling, it needs to be made out of sturdy, reliable, high-quality materials. Consumers have a lot of choices today. If the things you are selling are not worth the money you are charging for them, consumers will have no trouble finding an alternative company to buy from. There is no shortage of businesses in the modern world. No matter what your niche is, there will be somebody else selling the same thing as you. High-quality products are therefore very important and can make you stand out.


Responsive Support

You never know what kind of problems you are going to encounter in business. If you have issues with your business’s products, you need to be able to get in touch with your supplier or manufacturing partner and resolve them immediately. However, if the company you buy your products from does not have responsive customer support, they are not going to be able to help you. You therefore need to make sure that your business partner is one with a supportive customer service desk that is able to respond to and resolve queries quickly and efficiently.

Delivery Times

Finally, try to find a customer manufacturing partner who is able to produce products quickly and get them shipped out to you in a timely manner. The last thing you need is for your supplier to have slow turnaround and delivery times. When you first get in touch with a customer manufacturer, make sure that you ask them about how long it takes them to produce products and get them shipped out to their customers. If your chosen partner’s warehouse or factory is in close proximity to your business, you can pick things up yourself rather than paying for delivery.

Custom manufacturing partners save you the hassle of having to produce products in-house. Use the guidance given here to find a partner that’s right for you. Make sure that in addition to following this post’s advice, you take a look at your chosen manufacturer’s reviews. Their reviews will tell you a lot about them.   

 

109 Irish companies secured European Space Agency (ESA) support in 2023

Enterprise Ireland has today published the ‘Space Activities in Ireland 2023’ Report, highlighting the growing participation and success of Irish companies in the European space sector. By the end of 2023, 109 Irish companies were actively engaged with ESA, demonstrating the significant expansion of Ireland’s role in this high-growth industry.

In 2023, ESA awarded contracts worth €9.9 million to Irish companies primarily focused on industrial activities. Industrial co-funding of €2.2 million further supported these enterprises. Throughout the year, 25 companies, including three newly space-active businesses, were supported in developing products and technologies across sectors including telecommunications, earth observation, and space exploration.

A key highlight of the year was the successful launch of the Educational Irish Research Satellite 1 (EIRSAT-1), Ireland’s first satellite, on 01 December 2023, marking a significant milestone. EIRSAT-1 is a student-led project from University College Dublin (UCD) and was developed in collaboration with Irish technology companies.

Commenting on the 2023 report, Minister Emer Higgins, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, said:

“2023 was a momentous year for the Irish space sector. The increasing number of Irish companies working with ESA, alongside the launch of EIRSAT-1, highlights Ireland’s strong position in this fast-growing sector.

“As Ireland’s space community continues to innovate and collaborate with European and global partners, the future of the country’s space sector looks brighter than ever. The Irish Government is committed to continuing its support for innovation and enterprise in the space sector as we look to build on these successes and further strengthen Ireland’s role in the global space economy.”

Marina Donohoe, Head of Research and Innovation at Enterprise Ireland, added:

“The strong growth in Irish companies engaging with ESA, now reaching 109, is a clear indicator of Ireland’s expanding footprint in the global space economy. This year’s report demonstrates the progress and impact Irish companies are making through collaboration with ESA, not only in advancing space technology but also in driving innovation in sectors with downstream applications. Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting these companies and the growing number of research teams actively involved in space-related developments supported by ESA.”

The space economy was valued at $630 billion in 2023 and is forecast to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, with an average annual growth rate of 9%, significantly outpacing global GDP growth[1]. This rapid expansion, driven by both public and private sector investments, has opened new opportunities for ‘NewSpace’ companies developing innovative space-related products and services.

In a demonstration of Ireland’s position at the front rank of space technology development, ESA’s new rocket the Ariane 6, which launched smoothly in July this year, used two technology systems designed and built by Irish space engineering company Réaltra. Enterprise Ireland’s ESA Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC) Ireland also had a successful year, welcoming seven new start-ups. These companies are focused on developing both upstream and downstream applications, further bolstering Ireland’s contribution to the burgeoning space sector.

Another key development for the sector in 2023 was the establishment of the Irish Space Association (ISA), a new organization designed to foster collaboration among space-active companies and research organizations in Ireland. This collaborative network will play a pivotal role in the future growth of Ireland’s space sector by promoting knowledge-sharing and enhancing the country’s competitive edge in the global space market.

The ESA End of Year Activities Report 2023 underscores the significant progress being made by Irish companies and researchers as they collaborate with ESA and European partners. With Irish companies continuing to leverage the opportunities created by NewSpace, the future looks bright for Ireland’s expanding space sector.

For more information or to download the full report, visit enterprise-ireland-esa-2023-report-en-134478.pdf

If you are a Bank Of Ireland customer you may need to change your phone

If you are a Bank Of Ireland customer you might need to upgrade your smartphone to continue to use their digital services, this is because of security reasons and support of older devices which is running older software.

The 31st March is the date given to change your device if you use the app which is not much notice to be honest and for those who like to tamper with their device and use Huawei devices your luck is also out as they will not support either.

BOI says

Device manufacturers regularly update the software and hardware they use. When they do, older operating systems are discontinued, and older software which has become outdated is no longer supported. Apps including ours must stay up to date with updates, so that customers can continue to have access to new and existing features.

 

Devices supported are Android phones and tablets using Android version 11 or higher and iPhones and iPads using iOS version 15 or above so now would be a good time to go and check if you need to update your device

 

Mobile Operating System Support Policy

Update your device before 31 March 2024

31 March is a key date for any customer with an operating system on their device that is older than those mentioned below. After this date we will no longer offer support for these operating systems. Importantly, customers will not be able to download a new instance of the Bank of Ireland mobile app again on that device.

Your device may be running on one of the following affected operating systems:

  • iOS (Apple) devices using operating systems 14 and lower
  • Android devices using operating systems 10 and lower

Why updating is important: If your device is running on one of these older operating systems, and you do not update the device by 31 March, the existing version of the BoI app that you use today may not work. If you delete the app, you will not be able to reinstall it on that device. In other words, your phone or tablet will no longer work for mobile banking. The only fix for this is to update your device before 31 March.

Why is this happening? Device manufacturers regularly update the software and hardware they use. When they do, older operating systems are discontinued, and older software which has become outdated is no longer supported. Apps including ours must stay up to date with updates, so that customers can continue to have access to new and existing features.

Devices and operating systems that we support

We support the following smart devices and operating systems only:

  • Android phones and tablets using Android version 11 or higher
    Available from the Google Play store
  • iPhones and iPads using iOS version 15 or above
    Available from Apple store

Restrictions

  • Windows and Blackberry phones are not supported.
  • The app is not available for download from the Huawei app store.
  • Biometric login using face or fingerprint cannot be enabled on rooted Android or jailbroken iOS devices, in other words devices where any of the manufacturer’s software restrictions have been removed.

Source

UPDATE 28/8/24  Bank Of Ireland have now said they are extending the date till July 1st if you can’t use phone or tablet you can still access via your web browser or PC with a PSK (Physical Security Key)

Be a Casino VIP from Home: 6 Exclusive Benefits of Online Entertainment

Online entertainment has revolutionized the way we experience various activities, including the world of casinos. Thanks to the advent of online gambling platforms, anyone can now become a casino VIP right from the comfort of their own home. Gone are the days when exclusive privileges were reserved only for high rollers visiting luxurious brick-and-mortar establishments. 

Best online casinos NZ offer a plethora of benefits that cater to players of all levels. In this article, we will explore six exclusive advantages of online entertainment that make every player feel like a true VIP, regardless of their budget or experience. So, sit back, relax, and discover the exciting perks that await you in the virtual realm of online casinos.

1. The Convenience of 24/7 Entertainment 

In the world of online entertainment, one of the most enticing benefits is the convenience of accessing casino games anytime and anywhere. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar casinos with their restricted operating hours, online casinos are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means that whether it’s the middle of the night or a busy workday, you can log in to your favourite online casino and indulge in thrilling games at your own convenience. 

No longer do you need to plan a trip or worry about travel arrangements? With just a few clicks, you can instantly immerse yourself in a world of excitement, enjoying your favorite casino games from the comfort of your own home or even while on the go using your mobile device. The flexibility and accessibility offered by online casinos truly make every player feel like a VIP.

2. Lucrative Welcome Bonuses 

When it comes to online casinos, one of the most alluring perks that await new players is the opportunity to take advantage of lucrative welcome bonuses. Search for a live casino in the UK and see for yourself if these bonuses serve as a grand entrance to the virtual casino world and are designed to entice and reward players right from the start. Welcome bonuses typically come in various forms, such as deposit matches, free spins, or a combination of both. 

By claiming these bonuses, players can significantly boost their initial bankroll, giving them more opportunities to explore different games and potentially land big wins. This exclusive treatment from online casinos not only enhances the overall gaming experience but also makes players feel like valued VIPs right from the moment they sign up. So, why wait? Kickstart your VIP journey with a bang by claiming these generous welcome bonuses.

3. VIP Loyalty Programs 

In the realm of online entertainment, loyalty doesn’t go unnoticed. Online casinos go the extra mile to reward their dedicated players through VIP loyalty programs, which offer a world of exclusive perks and benefits. As players engage in their favorite casino games and place bets, they earn loyalty points that contribute to their VIP status. The higher the VIP level, the more enticing the rewards become. These rewards can include personalized bonuses, cashback offers, faster withdrawals, dedicated account managers, exclusive tournament invitations, and even luxury gifts or trips. 

VIP loyalty programs not only provide an extra layer of excitement and motivation but also make players feel appreciated and valued. They create a sense of exclusivity, elevating the overall gaming experience and turning regular players into true casino VIPs. So, keep playing, climbing the loyalty ladder, and unlock a world of extraordinary rewards that are reserved just for you.

 

 

4. Personalized Customer Support

When it comes to online casinos, customer support is an essential aspect of the VIP experience. Online casinos understand the importance of providing prompt and reliable assistance to their players. That’s why they offer personalized customer support that ensures every player receives red-carpet treatment. Whether you have a question about a game, need assistance with a transaction, or require any other form of support, dedicated customer support agents are just a click away. 

These agents are trained to provide professional and personalized assistance, catering to your specific needs. With their expertise and attentiveness, you can expect swift responses and resolutions to any queries or concerns you may have. This level of customer support not only enhances the overall gaming experience but also makes you feel like a valued VIP, knowing that your satisfaction is a top priority.

5. Wide Range of Games

Online casinos are renowned for their vast and diverse selection of games, offering a VIP suite of options that cater to every player’s preferences. Whether you’re a fan of classic table games like blackjack and roulette, or you prefer the thrill of slot machines and video poker, online casinos have got you covered. With thousands of titles from renowned software providers, you can explore a world of immersive graphics, captivating themes, and innovative gameplay features. 

Online casinos often introduce new games regularly, ensuring that there’s always something fresh and exciting to try. The wide range of games available ensures that players can find their favorites and discover new gems, creating an enriching and entertaining VIP experience right at their fingertips.

6. Enhanced Privacy and Security

When it comes to online entertainment, privacy, and security are paramount, especially for high-stakes players. Online casinos prioritize the protection of their players’ sensitive information and funds, employing state-of-the-art security measures to ensure a safe and secure gaming environment. They utilize advanced encryption technology to safeguard personal and financial data, making it virtually impossible for unauthorized individuals to access. 

 

Reputable online casinos are licensed and regulated by recognized authorities, which ensures fair play and accountability. For high-stakes players, knowing that their privacy is respected and their transactions are secure brings peace of mind and allows them to fully immerse themselves in the VIP experience without any worries. With enhanced privacy and security measures, online casinos create a trustworthy and reliable platform for players to enjoy their favourite games and indulge in the VIP treatment they deserve.

 

As we conclude our exploration of the exclusive benefits of online entertainment, it is clear that virtual casinos offer a VIP experience that rivals their land-based counterparts. With the convenience of 24/7 access, lucrative welcome bonuses, VIP loyalty programs, personalized customer support, an extensive selection of games, and enhanced privacy and security measures, online casinos provide a remarkable package for every player. 

Whether you are a casual gambler seeking excitement or a seasoned high-roller in search of exclusive treatment, the virtual realm of online casinos is a realm where everyone can be a VIP. So, embrace the digital age, harness the power of online entertainment, and elevate your gaming experience to new heights from the comfort of your own home.

Fairphone champions long-term support of older phone models with Android 13 update of Fairphone 3(+)

Fairphone, the Dutch social enterprise building a market for ethical smartphones, has announced that the Fairphone models 3 and  3+ will be receiving an update to Android 13. Beta version roll-out has started today, with all users receiving the update by the end of June. The new update will take users of the Fairphone 3 and the Fairphone 3+ from Android 11 directly to Android 13.

This update to Android 13 is an example of Fairphone’s policy of providing software support for its devices for as long as possible. Since support by the device’s chipset vendor has expired, Fairphone 3(+) software is now maintained directly by the Fairphone team who assessed the feasibility of updating the device to Android 13 right away. Fairphone has previously done the same with the recently discontinued Fairphone 2, skipping Android 8 and updating the device to Android 9 instead.

The Fairphone 3 was originally launched in 2019 with Android 9, the upgraded version, Fairphone 3+, followed in 2020. Both models are guaranteed to continue to receive software support until at least August 2024. However, Fairphone aims to support the phones for even longer, until 2026. This is a first for the Android ecosystem. Fairphone wants to push the industry to act more responsibly and maintain phones longer.

Agnes Crepet, Head of Software Longevity at Fairphone, states:

“At Fairphone, we not only care about our new customers, but also about our existing users. By providing Android updates for our older models, we are going against industry norms and want to ensure that owners of the Fairphone 3 can also enjoy using their phones for longer. As we always say, the most sustainable phone is the one you already own!”

Google.org announces next phase of grant funding to support local employment opportunities in Dublin

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly TD announced funding support of €300,000 by Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google, to fund nonprofits supporting local employment opportunities through the Local Employment Task Force.

Launched in 2021 with support from Google, the Employment Task Force aims to find sustainable employment solutions for long-term unemployed people from the south inner city and provide training and development opportunities. This latest grants by Google.org will fund skills programmes by two nonprofits in the local area:

 

  1. The Anchorage Project – a community-based training programme in the Ringsend and Irishtown area. The new skills based training will support 70 students to obtain an ITEC certified level qualification and  soft skills to enable them to gain sustainable employment in the beauty and hospitality skills industry.

  2. The Irish Nautical Trust – Google.org will continue its support of this hugely successful scholarship programme for students to access marine skills and technology. Launched in October 2021, this community-based environment maritime training programme educates local unemployed people and school leavers on the environment. Of 30 recent graduates, 28 have gained employment with ongoing support being provided to the remaining two. The funding supports access for students to obtain a certified level of maritime skills and enable them to gain sustainable employment in the marine industry.

At the event, Minister Donnelly also presented graduation certificates to 10 parents of children with special needs. Each recipient completed Google’s inaugural Special Needs Assistants scholarship programme. A further 10 scholarships were announced by Google covering the Docklands community.

Welcoming Google.org’s funding support to the Anchorage Project and the Irish Nautical Trust, Minister Donnelly said: “The employment opportunities both these programmes provide to the students will play a key role in not only their own futures but that of the wider community. While the State has a role to play, I would call on industry to join companies like Google and enhance their efforts to increase community employment. I have been informed that the majority of previous recipients of the Irish Nautical Trust Marine Skills & Technology scholarship programme secured employment and I look forward to hearing how all scholarship recipients fare in the months ahead”.

He added, “I would also like to sincerely congratulate today’s SNA certificate recipients and commend them on their passion and commitment to facilitating inclusive education in our community.  SNAs play an invaluable role in supporting the education and well-being of students with additional needs in schools and these parents commitment to not just the education of their own children but those of the wider community is especially commendable”

David Sneddon, VP, Google Ireland, said, “Today is about recognising the importance of having access to training in your community. I would like to specifically congratulate those who graduated. All those who received a certificate today are mothers of children with additional needs who are passionate about their wider community. We are also delighted to continue our support of the Irish Nautical Trust, an integral member of our Employment Task Force, and we look forward to developing our relationship with the Anchorage project. Google Ireland remains committed to supporting our local community and addressing their needs in partnership with the community.”

Jimmy Murray, Irish Nautical Trust, said, “The Irish Nautical Trust’s mission is to create a marine training apprenticeship programme to train and certify young people in maritime skills to allow them to secure and maintain long term sustainable employment. However, our work is only possible through support from the government and organisations committed to continuing the nautical skills tradition in Dublin. We are thrilled that this grant from Google.org will support a further 30 graduates through the training scheme”.

Last evening’s event was to present certificates to the first 10 parents of children with special needs who completed the Special Needs Assistants (SNA) qualification with support from Google. This programme was established by Google’s Education Taskforce, a group consisting of the seven local schools in the area, who identified the need for SNA support. At the same time the local Neurodiversity network in the community made up of over 60 families from Irishtown, Ringsend and Pearse Street (NIRP) approached Google seeking training support in the field of SNA and digital support.

Google supported 10 scholarships for the NIRP group. 10 parents successfully achieved level 5 and 6 qualifications in the field of SNA. They carried out their work experience in the local schools supported by the Education Task Force. Following the initial success of the programme, Google has now announced its intention to fund a further 10 scholarships in the Docklands community.