DigiClare – Providing Digital Skills Training for over 55s – County Clare

Selected as an exemplar case study by DCU in partnership with .IE

Who:

Clare County Council

Clare is a county in the midwest region of Ireland bordered by the Atlantic coast and Lough Derg. While the seventh largest county in Ireland, it only has a population of approx. 120,000 people, 65% of which live in rural areas. Clare’s ageing population is growing; the percentage of the population in Clare over 55 will increase from 27% in 2016 to approx. 34% by 2031. Research by the Clare Age Alliance suggests that Clare’s ageing population, particularly those in rural areas, can experience isolation, lack both internet connectivity and IT Skills, and have low participation in life-long learning.

Objectives:

• To provide customised classes and workshops aimed at improving the digital skills and capabilities of people over 55.
• To provide access to social outlets for older people through digital means.

What:

Clare County Council in partnership with small local providers deliver digital training courses for over 55s in facilities and locations throughout the county. Using Digital Hubs for the pilot classes, the training covers topics such as familiarisation with technology; practical uses of tablets and smartphones, connecting communities, families, and friends; the internet as a source of information; and access to and using online services.

Why:

This training helps to bridge the digital divide in Ireland and support older people with little or no digital skills to get online.

Written by Dr. Jennifer Kennedy, The Irish Institute of Digital Business, Dublin City University.