Northern Ireland

Free online digital skills classes launched

A new resource has been launched to help people improve their digital skills during the coronavirus lockdown
A new resource has been launched to help people improve their digital skills during the coronavirus lockdown A new resource has been launched to help people improve their digital skills during the coronavirus lockdown

Free online classes have been launched for people wanting to improve their digital skills during the coronavirus lockdown.

Good Things Foundation has launched the new resource www.makeitclick.com, backed by Google, which includes classes on how to use email, documents, edit photos and improve online security.

It also includes a section on useful tools to make it easier to work from home.

Research commissioned by the foundation found that more than one in ten people (14.2%) in Northern Ireland have limited digital skills.

With many people feeling isolated from family and friends as the lockdown continues, Good Things Foundation hopes that the new tool will help people feel more confident about connecting online.

Helen Milner, Good Things Foundation Chief Executive, said: "Even before recent events, it was clear how important technology is to us in our everyday lives, and how vital digital skills are. In the last few weeks, as millions of people self-isolate and observe social distancing, technology has been a lifeline, allowing people to work from home, keep in touch with family and friends and order essentials online.

More than one in ten people in Northern Ireland have limited digital skills
More than one in ten people in Northern Ireland have limited digital skills More than one in ten people in Northern Ireland have limited digital skills

"Unfortunately not everyone is able to benefit from technology. More than 7 million people in the UK are not making the most of the internet and not improving their skills, putting them at risk of further isolation at an already difficult time.

"Make It Click aims to help adults who already have some basic digital skills achieve positive life and work outcomes by giving the practical skills and knowledge to build their confidence, and so I’m delighted we are launching the programme in Northern Ireland this week, at such a vital time."

To access the free resource, visit www.makeitclick.com