Age UK Gloucestershire has joined the Digital Inclusion Gloucestershire Initiative (DIGI) as a new Affiliate Member, strengthening the county-wide partnership working to tackle digital exclusion across Gloucestershire.
As part of its involvement, Age UK Gloucestershire will also run Digi Hubs in Tewkesbury, providing digital support for local residents in community groups.
As more everyday services move online, digital exclusion can make it harder for people to access information and essential services, stay connected and participate fully in a changing digital world.
DIGI works across Gloucestershire to make digital support accessible within local communities. The Partnership provides Digi Hubs in community spaces, helps people in their own homes through the Digi@Home programme and supports a network of Digital Champion volunteers who help people build their digital skills and confidence.
Age UK Gloucestershire’s involvement will bring additional knowledge and expertise to the Partnership, particularly around the experiences of older people and the digital barriers they can face.
Alex Digby from the Digital Inclusion Gloucestershire Initiative said: “We are delighted to welcome Age UK Gloucestershire as an Affiliate Member of DIGI. Digital exclusion can have a real impact on people’s independence, confidence and ability to access services.
“By working more closely together, and with Age UK Gloucestershire providing Digi Hubs in Tewkesbury, we can reach more people and make it easier for residents to access practical digital support in their own communities.”
Alan Inman-Ward, CEO of Age UK Gloucestershire, said: “With our long-standing connections to Tewkesbury, we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that regular local support can bring to people who are digitally excluded. That’s why it’s particularly rewarding that Age UK Gloucestershire will be supporting local residents in Tewkesbury through the Digi Hub programme.
As a new Affiliate Member, we’re proud to be working alongside like-minded organisations to strengthen the impact of the Digi Partnership.”