‘Digital Support for Older People Project’

Tender description

Leitrim County Council has been awarded funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development for a project under the Innovation Measure of the CLÁR 2021 programme and is looking is recruit a Digital Support Worker on a contract basis commencing in January 2022. The ‘Digital Support for Older People Project’ will provide digital support across Leitrim Library Service’s branch network by delivering a ‘drop in’ digital support facility, where expertise will be available to train and support older people in the set up and the use of digital technology. The proposal aims to provide one-to-one support and guidance. The proposal aims to make information regarding digital technology accessible and available through the library service by providing dedicated 2.5 to 3 hour slots in 5 branch libraries on a weekly basis for the duration of the contract. The libraries involved in this initiative are Manorhamilton in North Leitrim and Carrick-on-Shannon, Ballinamore, Drumshanbo and Mohill in South Leitrim. This initiative gives an opportunity to people who are geographically isolated the opportunity to visit a familiar space in the community and the means to be assisted to build their digital skills in a safe way and secure way. The service is free to older people who wish to be supported in becoming more familiar with their digital device (smartphone, tablet, iPad or laptop). The goal is to support the older person to learn how to use these devices and build confidence thus creating a positive experience. Guidance will be given regarding texting, setting up an email address, downloading apps, looking up information, online shopping/banking, making appointments, accessing government and public health information, using social media etc. There will also be a focus on online safety and learning to spot a scam.