The Digital Inclusion Program is in full swing across the Copper Coast, Yorke Peninsula, and Barunga West Council’s, supported by an Age Friendly SA 2023-2024 grant from Office for Ageing Well.

The program is aimed at providing access, affordability, and digital ability to all residents. Currently 10 venues have regular one-on-one assistance available to the community to help them with learning and understanding digital devices. Also running are regular classes on internet literacy.

The program’s Digital Inclusion Officer Gavin Johns has been blazing a trail across the Yorke Peninsula, and the Mid North, paying visits to residents who want to upskill themselves.

“It has been a very rewarding start to this role, I firmly believe that no matter who you are, or what age, you deserve to be connected to the digital world. Nobody should get left behind,” said Johns.

“The pandemic allowed many of us to gain experience using technology while working from home, but the reality is many others got left behind as technology rapidly accelerated,” noted Johns and went on the say that; “The things that contribute to poor online access, include socio‑economic, educational, literacy, age, cultural and geographic factors. And while we can’t solve these issues with this program, we can help to bring these people up to speed and stop them getting left behind.”

Through workshops, focus groups, and facilitated sessions, older people are supported in maintaining independence by learning to use mobile digital devices at home. Inviting and accessible spaces encourage participation in digital literacy classes, fostering a community of like-minded individuals. Participants built new relationships and networks, enhancing social cohesion and resilience.

The program is not just about getting people into computers, it’s more than that. Jan, an older person who is a regular user of the program, accessed support and knowledge to publish a book. Jan wrote a very personal story of coping through grief after the loss of a child. However, she had done so in the notes section of her iPad and didn’t have the skills to transfer it into a format for publishing. Accessing the program provided priceless assistance and gave Jan the ability to bring her book to life.

“This project would never have happened without this program. I am proud of the knowledge that I have gained, and I highly recommend others getting involved,” said Jan.

Digital inclusion facilitates communication with friends and family, helps people find work, change jobs, gain skills, improve their education, seek government support, access financial and health services, entertainment, and can help with timely information during emergencies. It also allows people of all ages to participate in our community, benefiting individuals and the economy.

“Bridging the digital divide is critical for people in regional communities. We’re encouraging anyone who is interested to come along to a session or reach out for extra information.” finished Johns.

The program commenced in September and will continue until June.
For more information contact Kadina Library (08) 8828 1250.

The Digital Inclusion program is supported by an Age Friendly SA grant from Office for Ageing Well.