EverybodyOnline brings 5000 into the digital age

Nonagenarian, Martin Armour, had his first taste of virtual life when he learned how to use a computer and surf the internet at an EverybodyOnline taster session, held in partnership with BIH sheltered housing in Ballyclare.

EverybodyOnline, a project delivered by the charity Citizens Online and jointly funded by BT and the Delivery and Innovation Division within the Department of Finance and Personnel, aims to close the digital divide by helping excluded communities get online.

Speaking after the 90-minute taster session, Mr Armour, said:

In 2006 Northern Ireland became the first region in Europe to have 100 per cent broadband availability. According to government figures 61 per cent of the people in Northern Ireland now use the internet on a regular basis.

Frank McManus, BT Head of Wholesale Services, said:

“BT is committed to making a positive difference to society. Access to computers and the internet can improve people’s lives by opening doors to education, jobs and entertainment. However many people are still missing out as they don’t have the opportunity or necessary skills to use the technology. EverybodyOnline addresses these obstacles by giving people the skills, confidence and motivation to use technology, and helping them become fully included in society.”

Since its launch EverybodyOnline has introduced older people, people with a disability and people living in the North West and Fermanagh and South Tyrone region to the benefits of digital technology by running internet taster sessions and online safety workshops, bringing the internet into sheltered housing schemes, and helping community groups have a presence online with their own website.

Basil Davidson, Digital Inclusion Manager of the Delivery and Innovation Division within the Department of Finance and Personnel, said:

“The Delivery and Innovation Division within the Department of Finance and Personnel has set out to facilitate a digitally inclusive society where all communities, families and individuals are able to embrace technology and use it to their advantage. We’re delighted to be involved in this initiative which is helping people overcome barriers to technology.”