South Leinster Citizens Information Service

A Digital Help Service (DHS) was piloted within the CIS network in response to the growing prevalence of online government services. Digital exclusion may affect those without reliable internet access, those who cannot afford connectivity, and individuals lacking computer literacy. Rethink Ireland funding will allow CIS to mainstream the DHS nationwide allowing the CIS to support and empower older adults, within a face-to-face setting, to engage digitally with government services. 

“Receiving this funding means that a Digital Help Service will be rolled out across 70 Citizens Information Centres (CIC) across Ireland, resulting in meaningful help for older people struggling to access their online government services. This help will be available in people’s local communities from trained Information Officers in a safe and confidential face to face setting” 

-Susan Ryan, Regional Manager

Roscommon Leader Partnership

The Click & Connect Roscommon project will identify and prioritise older adults most at risk of digital exclusion, especially “non-liners,” those who have never used the internet, often rural dwellers or isolated individuals. 

The RLP Click & Connect model is person-centred and person-led, delivered by trusted community members like carers, activity coordinators, youth volunteers, and support workers. These are the trusted and familiar faces already present in older people’s daily lives.  The focus is also on sustained support, not just first steps.  

Kerry Community Youth Service

Kerry Community Youth Service‘s (KCYS) Tech and Tea project connects Kerry’s younger and older generations through skills sharing and technology. Digital Youth Mentors will work with elderly participants to enhance their digital literacy, promote social inclusion, and improve quality of life. Tech and Tea promotes community wellbeing by addressing socio-economic disadvantage or marginalisation. Youth participation is the guiding principle underpinning KCYS’s Youth Work. The Tech and Tea project recognises young people’s right to be active citizens by enabling them to make positive impacts on their communities. 

University of Limerick Foundation

“Deonach Digiteach” or “Digital Volunteer” is an intergenerational empowerment project that centres on the development of essential digital skills while fostering meaningful volunteering connections. Student volunteers engage in hands-on learning and mentoring, supporting older adults to navigate technology confidently. The initiative promotes inclusion, reduces digital divides, and creates a supportive network where learning flows both ways, aligning to a range of higher education priorities such as life long learning. By combining skill-building with social engagement, the project delivers lasting impact for individuals and communities in an increasingly digital world. 

“University of Limerick Foundation and Student Volunteer Ireland are thrilled to partner with Rethink Ireland to enhance intergenerational community engagement for digital skills. When we share knowledge across generations, we don’t just teach skills—we build bridges that strengthen communities.”  

– Lorraine Tansey, Student Volunteer Ireland Programme Manager. 

Rehab Group

Digital Bridges puts older adults at the heart of learning, helping them gain the confidence and digital skills they need to stay connected, independent, and included. Led by Rehab Group and shaped by disabled older people themselves, the programme offers empowering, practical training in local communities, supported by younger volunteers and accessible tools. Digital Bridges reaches those most at risk of isolation and opens new pathways to connection, participation, and wellbeing across Ireland. 

“Digital Bridges is opening new doors for older adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them the skills and confidence to navigate the digital world safely and independently. With the Hi Digital Fund, we can reach even more people nationwide and help reduce isolation through technology.”  

– Finbar Murray, interim CEO Rehab Group