Here Am I – A Collaborative Arts and Online Communication Programme

Description

Older people impacted by isolation in Galway City were supported to make their own self-expressive film and sound projects utilising Acorn Tablets provided by Galway City Partnership. The project provided a supportive social outlet for people to learn basic online communication skills while engaging in creative practices. 10 online group meetings were facilitated over a 10-week period, where participants had the opportunity to share and discuss their work and their learnings. Each participant also had one-to-one meetings to assist them in using the camera app, recording sound and video on Whatsapp, storing, and sharing files, photos and recordings, and using the basic settings on Zoom. Following the success of the pilot project funded by Creative Ireland, two additional projects have been funded through the Community Resilience Fund and the Community Mental Health Fund, supporting 24 older adults impacted by social isolation in Galway City. As soon as participants were confident in using the basic functions of the Tablet and accessing Zoom, they were signposted to other health and wellbeing programmes they could engage in, including online exercise classes delivered by Siel Bleu.

Aim of Initiative

Older people impacted by social isolation. Referrals were received from COPE Galway, Galway Contact and Age Action Galway, as well as Galway City Partnership Community Development Team.

Who is it aimed at

Older people impacted by social isolation. Referrals were received from COPE Galway, Galway Contact and Age Action Galway, as well as Galway City Partnership Community Development Team.

Steps critical to success

1. Collaboration and interagency approach
2. Technical expertise and capacity to support initial set up of devices for users
3. Access to Acorn Tablets, data and technical support and the ability to customise devices based on the needs of the users

Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Additional measures needed to be implemented due to covid-19 restrictions and the inability to meet face to face, wrap around supports required
2. Difficulties encountered by older people engaging in remote learning e.g. hearing/ speech impairments
3. Higher levels of demand for interaction with support staff for the programme due to social isolation and loneliness

Outcomes / Benefits

1. Increased confidence in using technology – older people learned how to use the Acorn tablets and connect with family and friends via Whatsapp & Zoom
2. The programme significantly improved the mental health and wellbeing of participants, reduced social isolation and loneliness, new friendships developed.
3. A number of participants progressed on to other online health and wellbeing programmes.