A groundbreaking initiative aimed at increasing digital access in the Liverpool City Region has successfully helped over 4,500 residents get online, enabling them to access jobs, healthcare, and other essential services.
Launched in August 2023, the Digital Inclusion Initiative (DII) is a pioneering public-private partnership that has provided 4,700 individuals with free Android™ tablets, in-person digital skills training, and six months of free mobile connectivity.
This project has significantly impacted participants' lives by equipping them with the necessary skills, devices, and connectivity to pursue employment and education, utilise online services, and stay connected with loved ones.
Before the programme, 41% of participants lacked access to a digital device. After completing the training sessions, 95% reported feeling "very" or "extremely" confident in setting up a device, connecting to the internet, using email, and staying safe online.
The DII has also supported over 450 individuals through the Government’s Restart scheme, which assists long-term unemployed people in re-entering the workforce. Many participants found employment after completing the program, highlighting the importance of digital access and skills in securing jobs.
Additionally, 69% of the 300 participants in the Combined Authority’s Households into Work program, which also aims to help people return to employment, achieved accredited education, employment, or training outcomes.
The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority collaborated with Lloyds Banking Group, Vodafone UK, and Assurant to bridge the digital divide, enhance lives, and stimulate economic growth across the UK.
The initiative began with a pilot phase, providing tablets, connectivity, and training to 300 unemployed or economically inactive local residents. Since then, it has expanded significantly. Assurant, a leading global business services company, provided financial support, while the local social enterprise FRC Group offered logistical resources and expertise through its digital inclusion project, ReUse IT. The programme's rapid expansion was made possible by the involvement of 105 local partner organisations within the Liverpool City Region Digital Inclusion Network.
Cllr Liam Robinson, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Cabinet Member for Innovation, said:
“Technology and connectivity play an increasingly central role in our economy and our lives, which is why we’re committed to making the Liverpool City Region the most digitally connected in the country.”
“The increasingly dominant role of connectivity means those who cannot navigate the new digital world risk falling further and further behind, unable to access jobs and services, and even becoming isolated from family and friends.
“That’s why I’m so proud of what we have achieved through this – helping thousands of people get online and building the capacity of community organisations to continue to support more people in the future.”
Image credit: Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
