I'm employed by Advice NI as part of its senior team, leading on digital and communications.

My Fellowship explored how digital inclusion learning programmes were enabling older people to avail themselves of the benefits the internet has to offer, such as reduced social isolation, improved independence and financial inclusion, and better quality of life.

My interest in this area of work grew from Advice NI's Supporting Active Engagement programme, in which volunteers delivered a ten-week programme to older residents living in sheltered housing. I saw at first hand the impact that building digital confidence, trust and skills had on the lives of those aged over 60. Participants were empowered to access services that could help improve the quality of their lives.

My Fellowship enabled me to explore on an international level how other countries were addressing digital exclusion among their older citizens, and which digital inclusion initiatives were motivating and supporting this demographic to go online with confidence.

The Fellowship introduced me to a network of international practitioners while building my own knowledge and confidence.