Digital Poverty Alliance: Uniting for Change on End Digital Poverty Day

In today’s digitally-driven world, millions of people across the UK face a profound challenge: digital exclusion. This term describes the lack of access to the devices, connectivity, and digital skills that many of us take for granted.

For those affected, digital exclusion isn’t just a minor inconvenience – it’s a barrier to education, employment, healthcare, and even social connection. Imagine a child unable to complete homework because there’s no computer at home, or an adult unable to apply for a job because they lack the skills to navigate online application forms. Digital exclusion widens social and economic divides, leaving those without access further behind in an increasingly connected world.

Recognising the urgent need to address this issue, the Digital Poverty Alliance was formed. We are a collaborative initiative dedicated to eliminating digital exclusion in the UK and, ultimately, across the globe. Our mission is to bring together efforts from businesses, government, charities, and educational institutions to create a unified strategy against digital exclusion.

By aligning these diverse efforts, we work to ensure that resources are used effectively and that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to participate fully in the digital age.

End Digital Poverty Day

On 12 September, we invite you to join us for the second annual End Digital Poverty Day, a key event in our ongoing mission to combat digital exclusion. Launched by the Digital Poverty Alliance in 2023, this day has quickly become a central moment in our work, providing a platform to raise awareness, engage communities, and build the momentum needed to tackle this critical issue.

End Digital Poverty Day features a broad range of online and in-person events designed to engage individuals and organisations alike. From interactive webinars and practical skill-building workshops to educational sessions and roundtable discussions, the day offers numerous opportunities to contribute to the fight against digital exclusion. It’s a day of collective action, bringing together people from all walks of life to bridge the digital divide.

Digital inclusion past and future

In the past year, the Digital Poverty Alliance has made significant strides in our mission. In June 2024, we hosted a landmark event at the historic Fratry Hall within Carlisle Cathedral, where we unveiled our updated National Delivery Plan (NDP) and introduced the Charter for Digital Inclusion.

This updated NDP is the result of extensive research and stakeholder feedback and focuses on making digital access more affordable, enhancing media literacy in the age of AI, and expanding access to essential digital services such as healthcare. The Charter for Digital Inclusion calls on organisations of all sizes to commit to concrete actions that promote digital inclusivity, reinforcing our belief that real change is possible when we work together.

One of our most impactful initiatives this year has been Tech4Youth, launched in collaboration with Barratt Homes. This programme, focused on Northwest Leicestershire, addresses digital exclusion among young people by providing them with essential devices, connectivity, and digital literacy workshops. By working closely with local communities and volunteers, we are helping to equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive in today’s digital world.

How to get involved

As we approach the second End Digital Poverty Day, we reflect on the progress we’ve made and the challenges that lie ahead. Your participation in this event is crucial. Whether you attend a workshop, join a discussion, or take part in our Gala Reception, every action contributes to building a more inclusive digital future.

The Gala Reception, held at the Cartoon Museum in London’s West End, is a celebration of our collective efforts to combat digital exclusion. With the invaluable support of Currys as our 2024 Gala Reception Partner, this event provides an opportunity to honour those who have made significant contributions and to renew our shared commitment to ensuring digital inclusion for all.

We invite you to join us in this vital journey. Together, we can create a future where digital exclusion is a thing of the past and everyone has the opportunity to thrive in our increasingly connected world.