Irvine seniors were presented with certificates after gaining new digital skills.

A few of CLASP Digital’s Essential Digital Skills learners received Bronze and Silver Certificates of Achievement in Irvine’s Vennel Gardens Community Hub on Thursday, January 31.

Funded through the Scottish Government’s Digital Participation initiative, CLASP Digital is part of the Community Led Action and Support Project based in Stevenston and delivers group and one-to-one learning sessions.

Supported by project staff and a team of volunteer ‘Digital Buddies’, the learners are guided through the basic use of ‘smart’ digital technology such as mobile phones, tablets, iPads and laptops before being introduced to the wonders of the internet.

Launched in August 2017, to date the project has worked with over 110 individuals through over 1,000 engagements, with 11 Digital Buddies either trained or in training supporting the project.

Learner and Bronze Certificate recipient Ann Walker said: “CLASP Digital has helped me improve how I communicate electronically with family and friends at home and abroad, with public services, in fact with anyone!

“The tutor, who is very patient, helped me understand how to get more out of the internet by finding information on the health issues facing my husband, and how to protect myself by looking for security features and suspicious messages.”

Digital Participation Co-ordinator, Jim Cooper, said: “CLASP Digital is proud to be at the forefront of supporting our senior citizens in learning to use the internet to their benefit; helping them save on household bills; stay in touch with family and friends; reduce social isolation; and discover the unimaginable information accessible via their digital devices.”

For more information phone 01294 602711.