Back to Digital Inclusion
Case Studies
Find out more on how the Digital Inclusion Initiative has enabled our residents to be more digitally included, ensuring no-one is left behind
About
The Digital Inclusion Initiative (DII) provides digitally excluded people with a free tablet, sim card (with 6 months of internet connectivity) and in-person digital skills training. The project began in 2023 and is ongoing throughout 2024. The following case studies demonstrate how the DII has benefitted our residents’ lives by allowing them to be more digitally included.
Some of the people supported by the DII were also supported by the Households into Work project, a project that works to develop residents’ confidence and employability skills, and is therefore referenced in some of the case studies.
Hear about our residents’ personal stories by clicking on the videos below, or by scrolling further down the page to read stories and view images.
Graham's story
Graham had limited access to the internet as he and struggled to use his phone to access online services due to it not working properly and the screen being too small for him to see. He had little knowledge of the internet and how to use digital devices but wanted to improve his skills so he could find work. Through the DII Graham received a tablet, which was more accessible for him as its screen and keyboard were bigger. He attended the digital skills sessions which gave him a better understanding of how to use his tablet. This gave Graham the confidence to search for jobs and access Job Centre services. Graham continues to improve his digital skills through an IT course with Everton in the Community. He's been using his tablet every day instead of putting on his TV, reducing energy costs.
Everton in the Community
A person receiving support.
“I felt the programme was delivered at a good pace that I understood. I found the course enjoyable and would have been happy to attend additional sessions.”
Peter's Story
Peter was lacking in digital skills and didn’t have any qualifications, which he found to be a huge barrier when looking for work. He’s also a carer for his partner and needed a flexible approach to ensure he could work around this commitment.
With his tablet, Peter has been able to search for jobs, access NHS support and engage with others via social media. He’s also been able to contact education providers, enrol on courses, and develop his skillset.
With his tablet, Peter was able to access several online services. He has now completed a Money Management course and is currently studying Level 1 Functional Skills in Maths and Introduction to Welding. Peter now has a wider understanding of many skills (including digital) and is aspiring to progress to his Level 2 qualification in Maths.
Through these courses Peter has been able to meet new people and improve his confidence, he is now considering a course in Digital Skills.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity as it has helped me so much to move on and progress with my journey.”
Karen's Story
After moving from Yorkshire to Knowsley, Karen was sofa-surfing between properties. She was keen to move into employment but had limited resources to help her search for suitable jobs. After receiving her tablet and sim card, Karen was able to complete several online courses and improve her personal skills, enhancing her employability. She’s also been able to use her tablet to search and apply for jobs more efficiently. Her tablet has also provided a way for Karen to keep in touch with her friends from Yorkshire and have support around her. She’s also been able to communicate with support services, which have helped her arrange accommodation. Karen plans to continue to apply for job roles and hopes to get into employment soon.
LIVV Housing
A person receiving support.
“The tablet helped me gain qualifications and look for work, it’s been a great help.”
Patricia's Story
Patricia is a very active pensioner. She helps organise a weekly bingo, summer events and days out for residents of the sheltered accommodation she lives in.
She had previously attended a basic computer course in 2015, so when the opportunity arose to do further computer training in 2023, she didn’t hesitate to take it, whilst rallying 7 more learners to join her on a 6-month digital training programme delivered by Speke Training & Education Centre.
Patricia expressed that it was the other people on the course who kept her motivated to go. She got on with them so well she felt it was a warm and welcoming space to be in, and they still all meet up every week.
Patricia achieved two certifications, one with Learn My Way and one with the British Computer Society (BCS). As well as gaining digital skills, these courses have increased her motivation and confidence to try new things. Patricia is now volunteers as a Digital Champion to help other people get online and improve their digital skills.
“Without the DII course I would have remained at home in isolation watching daytime TV.”
