#DestinationDigital
Connecting for a lifetime of enriched opportunities.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT
Communities without the right devices, access, training and support face digital exclusion and have a high risk of being caught in a poverty cycle. Striving for digital equity helps communities and individuals unlock access to resources, knowledge and skills for better health, improved education and career opportunities.
HOW IT WORKS
United Way UK is a trusted third sector expert, developing unique solutions to amplify CSR initiatives locally. Our fantastic partners can provide anything from devices and access, to training and support. Through creative connections, we match resources and time with the right charities; reducing workload whilst helping communities fulfil their technological needs to keep pace with digital transformation
Over 3 million UK households have limited or no access to the internet at home.
Those more at risk of digital exclusion include older citizens, the most financially vulnerable, those not working, people living alone, and people impacted by a limiting condition.
Recognising the effects of isolation on the nation’s elderly and also those struggling with their mental health, United Way UK launched an innovative approach to connect people via technology.
Joining Forces partners volunteers with older people to support them with their digital skills, while reducing both groups' feelings of isolation, anxiety and depression. Combining the expertise and knowledge of multiple UK charities striving for digital inclusion, Joining Forces is supporting over 100 people in Belfast, Liverpool and Hertfordshire.
PROJECT FOCUS – JOINING FORCES
“I like talking with Samir [volunteer] very much and I enjoy having a coffee with him. Then he helps me to learn the correct use of the tablet. I am happy, because now I can also connect with other people. And if I don’t understand something I can call Samir.”
Nicole
“Everyday activities—such as shopping, using a telephone and banking—increasingly require interaction with technology. Digital skills (the skills needed to interact with digital technologies) are now necessary life skills. Individuals and businesses alike will need skills to protect themselves online. It is not acceptable for any group to be excluded from access to digital technologies.”
House of Lords: Select Committee on Digital Skills
