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 below:

https://hidigital.ie/hidigital-in-action?#HiDigital

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