New report on ‘Hyperlocal Digital Inclusion’
An independent group examining the future of the UK’s neighbourhoods has published a new report on the connection between neighbourhoods and digital inclusion. The report – which was published by the Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods earlier this month — provides analysis and recommendations on tackling digital inclusion on a hyperlocal level.
Independent Commission on NeighbourhoodsDigital awareness training course launched for the public sector
Inspire is a new online programme for raising awareness of digital inclusion in public sector teams. Developed by social enterprise Digital Unite in collaboration with five public sector partners, the course adapts the group’s CPD accredited training for local authorities. It is available by subscription on their website, and below we link to a report about their co-development process.
Digital UniteCoventry City Council and Virgin Media O2 scale their tech reuse partnership
The tech company and local authority are expanding their #CovConnects initiative – galvanising more local businesses and organisations to contribute surplus tech. Over an 18-month period, the partners will collect unwanted devices from a growing number of businesses and public sector groups, distributing them to local people via their device bank.
Virgin Media O2Liverpool launches guide for ‘Helping You Online’
A coalition of organisations tackling digital inclusion in Liverpool has created a free booklet designed to build digital confidence. Created by Liverpool City Region Digital Inclusion Network, it features a range of themes, from device setup to digital healthcare. Each section of the accessible 84-page guide is available to download separately, and can be used by any organisation supporting digital inclusion work.
Liverpool City Region Combined AuthorityCwmpas to deliver new Digital Inclusion Wales programme
The Welsh Government has selected the social development agency Cwmpas to deliver its new Digital Inclusion Wales programme. The £7 million contract, which runs for three years, will see Cwmpas managing a national programme of activities. These include mapping the provision of digital inclusion throughout Wales, providing advice and support, and creating and updating key resources.
UKAuthorityGood Things Foundation’s Founder and CEO Helen Milner to retire
Helen Milner, Chief Executive of Good Things Foundation, the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity, has announced her retirement in Spring 2026. Since Helen founded the charity in 2011, her contributions to digital inclusion have been widely recognised, including being awarded an OBE and given an honorary doctorate from the University of Sheffield. Recently, Helen was named by Computer Weekly as the 9th most influential person, and number one female founder, in UK tech.
Third SectorApplications open for CEO of Good Things Foundation
Good Things Foundation is advertising for a new CEO to start in the new year, replacing Helen Milner following retirement. The organisation says it is looking for "a strategic executive leader with a proven ability to influence policy and convene people to drive systems change; and a commitment to creating a more inclusive society". Closing date is 24 October.
StarfishNew government minister for digital Inclusion and skills
Liz Lloyd CBE has been appointed parliamentary under-secretary of state in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the Department for Business and Trade. Appointed earlier this month, her responsibilities will include digital inclusion and skills. She previously served as deputy chief of staff under Tony Blair’s final administration.
Gov.uk
