The Access Skills and Content Initiative (ASC) is aimed at enhancing understanding and appreciation of how technological advances benefit society and encouraging and assisting the development of initiatives which focus on providing the necessary skills for confident use of technology by all citizens - particularly those who have been identified as being at higher risk of exclusion - so that they may participate in an inclusive Information Society.

Policy Context

The initiative is part of the Irish Government Action Plan.

Description of the way to implement the initiative

The funding is provided to voluntary, community and not-for-profit organisations and service providers to support late adoptors of technology in an inclusive information society. Over 2.38 million were allocated en 2007 to 90 separate initiatives.

Main results, benefits and impacts

The impact and added is strong in terms of the quality of life and participation in society of over 7 thousand people will benefit directly with several thousand others deriving further benefits for example through peer training.

Return on investment

Return on investment: Not applicable / Not available

Track record of sharing

Conferences have been held to raise awareness and disseminate information

Lessons learnt

Not available Scope: National