Each video comes in three versions: Google video, MP4 and in Transcript form. If neither of the video versions works first time around, consider taking one or more of the following steps:

1. Refresh the page, try alternative version

Media files such as videos are relatively large, and a broadband connection is recommended. If the file does not play first time, the first step is to click 'Refresh' on your browser and wait for 30 seconds to see if the file starts to load (normally indicated by the colour of the bar changing to a darker shade of grey from left to right). Alternatively, try the MP4 (or Google video) version instead. NB: On some computer systems, you may need to click play twice when viewing the Google version of a video.

2. Check speakers, volume level and play button

Another straightforward check is to ensure your computer has speakers either connected or built in, and that these speakers are turned on with the volume level sufficiently high to hear the sound play. Plus, don't forget to click the little play icon (normally an arrow pointing to the right), since not all computers will automatically play every type of media file.

3. Download and install Flash Player

Google videos (and some other elements on this website) use Adobe Flash Player. According to Adobe's published figures, around 98% of European users have Flash Player already installed at version 6 or above. However, it is worth making sure you have the latest version where possible. Google video, which is the default video option on this site, uses Flash.

Get Flash Player (opens new window)

4. Download and install QuickTime

Some media files require the free QuickTime media player from Apple. Many computers already have this installed - although it is worth making sure you have the latest version. Installing QuickTime is the single most effective way to access media on this site, since it plays most file formats. QuickTime comes with iTunes to organise your media library.

Get QuickTime with iTunes (opens new window)

5. Use a different internet browser

If you are using Internet Explorer to surf the web, now might be a good time to add the acclaimed Firefox browser to your list of options. On a Mac, use Safari or Firefox browsers. You can install more than one browser on any computer without necessarily having to change your default browser.

Get Firefox (opens new window)

6. Download then play

You may also right-click (PC) or ctrl-click (Mac) on the MP4 file links below, then select 'Save target as...' or 'Download linked file...' to save a copy of the file onto your computer, before double-clicking it to open and play. The advantage of this is that it enables your computer to choose its own default media player, which might be different to the one your browser has been trying to use thus far. Please bear in mind that the MP4 files are large and may take several minutes to download.

Stephen's Story - Ireland
Frances' Story - Scotland
Shane's Story - England
Liz's Story - Wales

If the file downloads as a file ending in .mp4.txt then click on the file name and change the ending to .mp4 before playing. This will change it back from a txt file to an mp4 file.

7. Talk to your IT or Network Manager

If using a computer in your workplace, or a public computer such as those in libraries or an internet cafe, there may be extra levels of security or filtering in place, which can prevent you from accessing certain media. Your IT or Network Manager should be able to advise and help you.