Digital Inclusion
Being digitally literate is no longer a luxury; it is a must-have skill for everyone to manage information, communicate effectively, manage finances, access support, and government services. It has become an essential tool for modern-day citizenship and participation, and no one can afford to be left behind.
Check out some of our handy "How To" guides to see what you can do right now!
“Supporting Communities have been incredibly successful at providing training, help, and support to those who need it. They continue to show that digital inclusion isn’t about technology. It’s about people: people helping other people to see how the internet can transform their lives. Local, face to face, friendly and supportive – they really do put people at the centre of digital inclusion.”
Our Digital Training
Our Digital Inclusion Officers, Stef and Carla, can help your group get online and make the most of the internet! Read on to learn about the groups we work with.
Individuals and Community Groups
As part of the Go On NI Initiative, Supporting Communities offers training primarily to individuals and community groups, with a focus on supporting older people and rural communities.
Supporting Communities has been at the forefront of digital skills training throughout Northern Ireland, working in partnership with the Department of Finance Digital Inclusion Unit since 2012, playing an integral role in the achievements of their Digital Transformation Programme.
We operate a waiting list system with priority allotted to the target groups; however, as part of the Go On NI service, we can also refer enquiries to the Department of Finance's Digital Transformation Team, who can assess if other partner organisations are in a position to assist.
We pride ourselves on delivering face-to-face and online training in a relaxed, easy-going, and fun atmosphere.
To discuss your digital inclusion needs, contact Stephanie McKillop at stef@supportingcommunties.org.
Housing Community Network Members
For members of the Housing Community Network, we offer specialised digital inclusion support for your groups.
This tailored service provides training and support on the same essential digital skills topics covered in our general community program, including basic computer skills, internet navigation, email use, and accessing online services as well as specific training to help community groups effectively use collaborative tools such as Google Docs, Google Sheets, and other free software platforms to better manage and organise their community activities.
This service is designed to help housing community groups operate more efficiently and enhance their organisational capabilities through the use of digital tools.
To discuss digital inclusion needs for Housing Community Network members, contact Carla Mulholland at carla@supportingcommunities.org.
Housing Associations and Other Organisations
If you are part of an organisation that needs digital training for staff or tenants, this can be offered via our trading subsidiary, Empowering Communities.
Please contact Siobhán ONeill, Tenant Participation and Community Engagement Officer, who will be happy to advise and provide you with a proposal and cost.
