Netsafe has powered up its efforts to protect and empower
older adults in Aotearoa, with the launch of twelve new
resources and a dedicated digital hub for community
organisations.
Unveiled today at an event in Dunedin,
the new materials are the latest addition to Netsafe’s
Get Set Up for Safety programme supported by Chorus,
a growing collection of over 20 free, ready-to-use fact
sheets, guides and interactive learning activities tailored
for older adults and the people who support them. The
practical tools are designed to build digital confidence and
help older people stay secure
online.
“We recognise that our older
adult population are eager to upskill as they navigate the
fast-changing digital landscape, to stay connected, manage
finances and access services”, says Brent Carey, CEO of
Netsafe.
“Over the last year we have
seen a big demand for our initial Get Set Up for Safety
resources, but it was clear that more was needed in this
space to enable the many amazing community organisations
supporting older adults throughout Aotearoa.”
For
community organisations, volunteers and facilitators that
work with older adults, the resources will provide a helpful
tool to hand out or use in workshops to support learning and
spark discussion.
Hannah Taylor, Head of
Sustainability at Chorus, says the initiative aligns with
their commitment to all aspects of digital equity, but
specifically ensuring access is safe and inclusive for
everyone.
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“We’re proud to continue our support of
a project that enables older New Zealanders to embrace the
benefits of being online, while also giving those around
them, families, volunteers, and community groups, the
information and tools to provide meaningful support,” says
Taylor, “Online safety isn’t a solo journey, and this
toolkit makes it easier for communities to walk that path
together.”
All
resources in the suite are free to
download.
Printed materials will also be
made available through trusted networks nationwide, such as
Age Concern, Citizens Advice Bureaus, Digital Seniors Hubs,
community libraries and other local support
organisations.