Why charities should be championing digital inclusion

Charities are leading the charge

Several charities are working to drive digital inclusion. By focusing on the groups that are traditionally excluded and leaning on their experience and understanding of the needs of their service users, charities have been able to cater to the digitally excluded.

Age UK have lots of information about COVID-19 available online and also publish free tech guides for older people to understand online safety and how to contact friends and family through video calls. Their advice line is always open to provide support and guidance to anyone who is stuck. They also provide info for carers and family members to help elders grasp the basics.

Adopting an agile approach

Charities have also demonstrated flexibility in championing digital inclusion. Having taken services online during the COVID-19 lockdown, some digital leaders have found the internet to be an avenue for new audiences. They can continue helping existing service users along with more people who need their help.

Dingley’s Promise, a charity working with under 5s with additional needs and disabilities has expanded and amped up its Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram presence. The charity has also engaged with and used print media and radio during Coronavirus.

"We have been forced to quickly shift to digital, remote support and information sharing and are finding that we can reach more people and have an even bigger impact than before.

As such, we are likely to continue with a number of the online activities even after the end of lockdown."

- Catherine McLeod - CEO

Finding the right tools for the job

Charities have been working to ensure that the right resources are available to people to get online and harness the full power of the internet and digital tech. Lockdown has revealed that many students do not have the necessary tools to get online to study. Teach First, an education charity, are urging internet providers to supply free Wi-Fi hotspots and broadband, as well as trying to get donated devices for students to use.

Digital inclusion is also helping to keep people safe out there. Mama Health and Poverty Partnership, a group of organisations supporting BAME African women and girls, is hoping to help those at risk of domestic violence by hiding pre-paid handsets in food packages being delivered to vulnerable people.

Multiple charities have reported that providing their services online has enabled them to reach many, many more people including people experiencing mental health difficulties, learning disabilities and deaf people. Championing digital inclusion also requires an examination of wider issues around inclusion to ensure that the needs of people are considered in closing the digital divide.