28% [of adults] experience digital exclusion with affordability as a key driver.
- Centre for Social Impact Collaboration of Universities in 2021.
Many people want to learn more about using government forms on the internet. They want to feel safe from scams, protect their privacy and be sure the internet information they find is reliable.
The older we are, the more likely we need help in dealing with the government online. The Victorian Government has allocated $2 million for public libraries to conduct targeted, hands-on digital training programs for older members of the community during 2023. Yarra Plenty Regional Library (YPRL) was successful obtaining one of these grants.
Yarra Plenty Regional Library is consulting with seniors within the library, via outreach and in aged care and nursing home facilities. These co-design consultations will find out what seniors would like to learn and what learning approach they would like us to take. We are reaching out to include Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities and multicultural support agencies. We can present in community languages and provide translated learning materials.
Learning topics will include:
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Health and health literacy online
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Cyber security and scams awareness
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MyGov and other government forms
Scam Awareness workshops are scheduled at Eltham, Thomastown and Ivanhoe Library during Seniors Month in October. You can also check out this awesome blog with tips and tricks on how to protect yourself from scams.
Library staff and volunteers will present to community groups in their meeting venues or in library IT learning rooms. Are you eager to access free Tech Help across our branches? Check out this blog covering our Tech Help Program.
If you have digital skills, especially on iPhone or Android devices, you can volunteer your time with an expression of interest to become a Tech Help Volunteer at one of our branches!
Library staff can give a Tea and Tech Talk for your community group or aged-care residence. To learn more, contact Alan Thompson by emailing ivayprl@yprl.vic.gov.au or contact the Ivanhoe branch at 9497 5780.