# Young people and young adults with special needs also benefit from the digital good

> Digitalization has modified our society´s services and procedures significantly over the last few years, and the "Ihan diginä!" project aimed to ensure young people with special needs can participate equally in this digital world.

## The Digital Divide for Special Needs
Digitalization has transformed society, making tasks like banking, socializing, and working easier for many. However, for young people and young adults with special needs, using digital tools is not always straightforward. Many lack the confidence or skills to navigate the digital world, despite often owning the necessary devices. This project sought to address this gap by providing guidance and encouragement to both the individuals and their caregivers.

## The "Ihan diginä!" Project
The "Ihan diginä!" project (2018–2021) was funded by STEA (the Funding Centre for Social Welfare and Health Organisations) and managed by the Finnish Honkalampi foundation. Its primary goal was to integrate digital tools into the everyday lives of young people with special needs to foster independence and equal participation.

## Methods for Digital Inclusion
The project developed five specific methods to support digital everyday life:

*   **Digiclub activity:** Focuses on learning to use digital equipment and services, transitioning from face-to-face meetings to online interaction as skills improve.
*   **Peer coaching:** Participants practice digital skills to become "peer digital experts" who can support others.
*   **Online support:** Provides remote advice and guidance for everyday activities to foster independent living.
*   **Virtual club activity:** A safe space to meet people, practice digital interaction, and learn to use platforms with the help of visual and video-based support materials.
*   **Digital day activity:** Integrates digital skills into regular, daily routines.

## Outcomes and Impact
Participants reported that digitalization opened new possibilities, particularly in maintaining social relationships and reducing loneliness. Key areas identified for continued focus include increasing digital skills, safety awareness, and netiquette. The project envisions a future where people with special needs are active "digioperators" who contribute to and influence society.

> “The best thing about virtual clubbing is that you get to see your friends and I have made some new ones too. Clubbing reduces loneliness. You don´t feel like you are home alone when you can talk to other people by video connection.” — *A project participant*

## Authors
*   **Tuula Airaksinen, Terhi Eskelinen, Senja Lappi and Marjo Pylkäs:** Students of Welfare and Health Coordinator Master’s Degree Programme at Savonia UAS
*   **Sanna Savela:** Senior Lecturer in Languages, Savonia UAS

## References
*   Honkalampi. Time of publication unknown. Development activities. #Ihan Diginä! (2018-2021). Online publication. [https://www.honkalampi.fi/kehittamistoiminta/paattyneet-projektit-ja-hankkeet/ihandigina/](https://www.honkalampi.fi/kehittamistoiminta/paattyneet-projektit-ja-hankkeet/ihandigina/). Accessed 19.4.2022.
*   Honkalampi 2021. Digimpi arki on täällä! Final report of #Ihan Diginä! project. Pdf publication. [https://www.honkalampi.fi/content/uploads/2021/09/Digimpi-arki-on-taalla.pdf](https://www.honkalampi.fi/content/uploads/2021/09/Digimpi-arki-on-taalla.pdf). Accessed 19.4.2022.