Go Digital at Get Online Week 2023

Head of Civil Service Jayne Brady has launched Get Online Week 2023 activities in Northern Ireland, aimed at helping people get online safely, improve their skills, and gain digital confidence.

(L to R) Kim Aiken (Deputy Head of Services, Libraries NI), Adrienne Adair (Director of Library Services) and Head of the Civil Service Jayne Brady

Get Online Week takes place from 16 – 22 October 2023 with a range of events across Northern Ireland providing free digital training sessions.

All events are free, informal and include 1-2-1 eClinic’s providing help with using mobile devices, an introduction to iPad or tablet, help with online shopping and government services, looking into your family history and how to stay safe online. 

Jayne Brady said, “Technology is becoming more essential to everyday life so it’s vital we all work to bridge the digital divide.

“I would urge anyone who feels apprehensive about going online or even wants to increase their skills to get involved with Get Online Week. There are many benefits for those who are online, such as managing their health and well-being, applying for jobs, learning new skills, saving money, being more cyber secure and staying connected with friends and family.”

Paul Duffy, Director of Digital, Security and Finance Shared Services, encouraged all those who don’t feel comfortable online to take advantage of the services, saying: “I highly recommend anyone who needs help to get online to sign up for the courses during Get Online Week.

“Increasingly our daily life requires digital skills therefore it is essential we ensure no-one feels excluded or left behind and has the skills to access the services and information they need. Get Online Week gives people the opportunity to sit down with someone to learn new digital skills, helping to boost their confidence and understanding, in this increasingly digital age.”

Libraries NI Director of Library Services Adrienne Adair said: “Libraries NI is delighted to host the launch of Get Online Week 2023. There are 96 libraries across Northern Ireland which offer free access to computers and Wi-Fi, as well as IT advice sessions with knowledgeable library staff.  These services are designed to help people feel more confident in navigating life online and provide a supportive environment for them to learn about IT and technology at their own pace. Get Online Week presents an ideal occasion to highlight the ongoing services provided by libraries throughout the year and we are pleased that we can provide support for it.”

Get Online Week is organised by the Department of Finance, in partnership with several organisations including Libraries NI, Supporting Communities NI and Business in the Community NI.

For more information on all the event locations and times, visit nidirect.

Notes to editors: 

1. Photo captions: Picture 1 (L to R) Kim Aiken (Deputy Head of Services, Libraries NI), Adrienne Adair (Director of Library Services) and Head of the Civil Service Jayne Brady; Picture 2 (L to R)  Paul Kelly (Senior Services Manager, Libraries NI), Head of the Civil Service, Adrienne Adair (Director of Library Services), Kim Aiken (Deputy Head of Services, Libraries NI).
2. Go ON NI is run by the Digital Inclusion Unit, Digital, Security and Finance Shared Services (DSF) within the Department of Finance to increase digital skills amongst digitally excluded sections of the population.

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