GenerationTech provides a consistent, quality service to the older people of Ireland (defined as those 65 years of age and older) that assists them, on demand, with their technology issues using phone line & digital channels. The scope of this service includes, but is not limited to,help with laptops, smart televisions,WiFi, software, mobile phones and telecommunications.
All services are free of charge and the helpline is currently open 7 days a week from 8am – 8pm. These opening hours may change to reflect volunteer numbers and demand for the service. Volunteers personal endpoints i.e. PCs, laptops, tablets and mobiles are used to manage these queries.

The Covid-19 Pandemic brought us a new awareness of others, their proximity and their condition. However, there are those that we believe need more support, and more consideration, given their special vulnerability.

There are currently just over 0.75M older people (65+) on the island of Ireland. Whilst a lot believe “the worst is over”, there is still a high degree of risk for our older people, especially those who are not in their fullness of health.

This has led to an increase in the use of modern technologies by older people, as they are very quickly up-skilling themselves with new devices and software. However, like many others, they may hear about, but not have access to, communications software, social media services and more importantly education about how to install and use such devices and software.

During the height of the Pandemic, Covid19_Tech (now known as GenerationTech) helped 1000`s of older people with their technology. Now, whilst relatives and friends are far more accessible, we would like to assist with giving full self-determination to older people, by continuing the service we offer, still free of charge.

GenerationTech (formerly known as Covid19Tech) with the very kind support of sponsors is delighted to be able to continue the service, and whilst  “normal”  will never be the same again, we will continue to work with our 65+ citizens to ensure their participation in the digital community is as frictionless as possible, and that they can share their wisdom and insight with us, as we help and support them.

Testimonials

I recently bought an Apple iPad, and having had no previous experience of the devices, quickly realized that I was not going to be able to get it up and running myself. A friend recommended that I approach the Covid19tech group. 

Response to my enquiry was swift and efficient. The technician who helped me, Niall Fox, spent five hours over the next two days installing the system. Niall was unfailingly pleasant, patient and supportive, although it cannot have been easy relaying instructions by telephone to someone like myself who was completely unfamiliar with touch pad technology. 

The group provides an invaluable service for those who might be feeling isolated at the moment. I would not hesitate to recommend them to a friend – in fact I have already done so. 

Hilary Heath 

iPad client

Anne phoned with a problem with the bill from her broadband supplier. One of our team of volunteers advised Anne of how to take it up with her supplier and how to escalate the problems to the regulator if this failed.  

Anne later called back to thank us, saying that the volunteer “gave me very useful help and I just wanted to let you know that everything has been sorted to my satisfaction now.” 

Anne

Broadband Issue

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen Volunteers, 

I am so grateful to all of you for your support.  

Over the past couple of months, I have been contacting your helpline on various occasions. The help I received was delivered by Deryck Fay whose patience I must have tested but through him I have gained a new level of confidence in handling issues with my iPhone and MacBook that I never dreamt I could do. Nothing was too much for Deryck. 

I have passed your details onto a number of people who have been in touch with you too seeking help and direction. It’s satisfying to hear back from them relating their positive experiences. 

I hope when the COVID crisis finishes that there will be some form of HELPLINE for us Senior Citizens. As the use of technology is becoming more and more important in our daily lives to have someone to turn to like yourselves would be an enormous help and encouragement. 

 Many thanks to Deryck and all on the Covid help team. 

 Best wishes to all. 

 Pat Cahalane 

 Pat Cahalane 

Repeat client - iPhone, MacBook issues

Roisin Meaney

tech issues client

Meet some of our team