Recommendations and next steps
Recommendations
There are a number of recommendations based on the feedback, data and research presented.
- Ensure that digitally excluded groups are involved in decision and policy making, and the design of services.
When making decisions, creating policies or designing services it is important that those who are most likely to be excluded are involved. Consider those smaller excluded groups in larger, more connected communities, as well as those facing significant socio-demographic inequalities across the borough.
- Work together to target those who need the most help.
Working collaboratively across organisations and services is vital to increasing digital inclusion. Sharing data and knowledge across services, as well as codesigning activities and support that tackle the biggest barriers will ensure that those most excluded are best supported.
- Review policies and services aimed at tackling digital inclusion.
Reviewing the accessibility of services aimed at the community and those who are digitally excluded will ensure equal access for all. Policies and services should consider both online and offline access proactively so that no one is left behind.
- Develop the skills and confidence of the workforce to support people to get online.
Ensuring that employees and volunteers have the right skills but also the confidence to meet the needs of local people and support them to develop digital skills, and improve their access, confidence and motivation.
- Tackle the quality and affordability of digital access within the home and community.
Prioritise the reliability and affordability of broadband within homes across the borough, as well as access to free Wi-Fi in the community and public spaces. Long term policies should prioritise high speed connections for homes and businesses across North Tyneside, and local campaigns should promote the availability of social tariffs for broadband connections, as well as access to free databank schemes.
- Develop digital support services that tackle the biggest barriers to being online.
Ensure that digital support services tackle each and every one of the barriers people are facing: access, skills, confidence and motivation. These services should consider what people have told us about:
- Knowing where they can go for help and support,
- Having opportunities promoted widely across the borough using a language they understand
- Wanting help and support that suits their needs or the specific tasks they need to complete, and,
- Having access to devices and connections
Next steps
The recommendations will inform a detailed action plan that address the six recommendations. This action plan will be multi agency and leads from each partner organisation will form the Digital Inclusion Steering Group which will lead and monitor progress.