The UK government has launched the £11.7 million Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, which will be distributed across 80 digital skills and support schemes to help those at risk of digital exclusion access online services. Funding is allocated across the UK, including Scotland (£764,020), Wales (£400,368), and Northern Ireland (£267,249), reflecting a nationwide effort to promote digital inclusion. Recipients include organisations such as Age UK, Good Things Foundation, Sheffield United Community Foundation, and the Women’s Aid Federation of England. Projects range from events and skills development sessions for older people to learn how to use the NHS App, to broader community-led digital skills initiatives.
The fund implements key actions from the government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan, published earlier in 2025, which aims to overcome digital exclusion across the UK. The plan includes measures such as piloting a device donation scheme, repurposing government laptops for those in need, and expanding the number of services accessible via GOV.UK One Login. Liz Lloyd, Minister for Digital Inclusion, highlighted that the initiative will empower community organisations to equip people with the skills, access, and confidence to benefit from online services, supporting opportunities in employment, healthcare, and community engagement.
Industry partners have pledged support for the Action Plan, including Google providing intensive digital skills training, Vodafone offering connectivity and tech donations, and BT extending social tariffs to digitally excluded households. This reflects a wider commitment to improving access and digital literacy across the country.
Regional and local initiatives further complement the fund. The Welsh Government is developing the Digital Inclusion Wales programme to provide bilingual advice and support, map digital inclusion, create resources, and foster collaboration across public, private, and third sectors. Lincolnshire’s Health and Care Digital Inclusion Strategy (2025–2028) focuses on device and data access, accessibility, digital skills, and partnerships, offering public computer maps, device banks, and volunteer-led support hubs. Similarly, Sussex ICB’s Digital Inclusion Strategic Approach (2025–2027) aims to ensure fair access to digital services, co-design solutions with communities, build skills, and use data to enhance transparency and trust. These efforts collectively seek to reduce digital exclusion and increase equitable access to essential online services across the UK.
