Digital inclusion

Providing information and signposting for those seeking help and support with digital inclusion.

What is the digital divide and how we can tackle it

Digital exclusion happens when people or groups face difficulties accessing or using digital tools like computers and the Internet. This might be because of not having the skills, knowledge, or means to get online. People who are digitally excluded might miss important things like education, jobs, services, or connecting with others online. 

Digital inclusion means making sure that everyone has the chance to access and use digital technology. It involves giving people the tools they need, like computers and the internet, and teaching them how to use them. This way, everyone can benefit from what's available online – like information, education, jobs, and staying in touch with others. Digital inclusion is also about ensuring that there are alternatives and that no one is excluded from accessing essential services just because they can't access or use technology easily. It's about giving everyone the same opportunities to be part of the digital world. 

Our response

We are committed to working with partners to assist people in getting online and accessing services digitally. In July 2022, we agreed on a Digital Inclusion Strategy

This will be underpinned by an annual action plan which seeks to deliver on the goals set out in the strategy. 

Options for support: 

Devices:

  • Getting Oxfordshire Online - Devices can be requested through GOO, who also signpost to support and information around connectivity. 
  • Asylum Welcome - provides support for refugees, including sourcing laptops. 
  • Oxford Community Action - supporting community in East Oxford. 
  • County libraries - access to public devices. offer educational resources, digital help, free WiFi and computer usage, eBooks and eAudio, printing, scanning, photocopying, digital newspapers, magazines, music streaming and a wide variety of books to borrow for free. You can access support to get online at many of the county’s libraries, including Oxfordshire County Library. Book a free appointment with a volunteer to guide you with computers, tablets and navigating the internet.

Digital Skills Support: 

  • Connect! - provides skills support through one to one volunteers to come to your home, open to anyone in the county, as part of offering from Citizens Advice North Oxon South Northants. 
  • AbilityNet - is a national scheme that offers various services, including 1:1 support and expertise in adaptations for older people and those with disabilities.  
  • My Life My Choice - provides independent support for people with learning disabilities in Oxfordshire. They offer a Computer Buddy Project, supporting adults with learning disabilities to access laptops, learn how to use technology and get connected online, with free digital skills workshops and 1:1 training sessions. 
  • Age UK Tech Buddy - is a national scheme that provides one-to-one support for older people. 
  • Astons Online - is a local Oxfordshire organisation provides support to people in Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire to build confidence with their technology. 

Training courses

  • Activate Learning - have courses which include various digital literacy options 
  • Oxfordshire Adult Learning Network, Abingdon & Witney College - have courses with part-time and evening options 

Connectivity

  • Social Tariffs - information about eligibility for social tariffs which are discounted broadband or mobile deals. These are generally cheaper than typical broadband tariffs and if you receive means-tested state benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit or other equivalents, you're likely eligible. 
  • Digital Infrastructure Programme| - provides information about broadband coverage in Oxfordshire, and projects to improve connectivity. 

Support

  • Connect!  - one to one volunteers to come to your home, open to anyone in the county, as part of offering from Citizens Advice North Oxon South Northants.
  • AbilityNet  - a national scheme offering various services including 1:1 support and expertise in adaptations for older people and those with disabilities. 
  • My Life My Choice -  provides independent support for people with learning disabilities in Oxfordshire. They offer a Computer Buddy Project, supporting adults with learning disabilities to access laptops, learn how to use technology and get connected online, with free digital skills workshops and 1:1 training sessions.
  • Age UK Tech Buddy  - one-to-one support similar to Connect for older people. National scheme.
  • Astons Online  - helping communities in Vale and South Oxfordshire build confidence with their technology

Devices and support

Public devices

  • County libraries - offer educational resources, digital help, free WiFi and computer usage, eBooks and eAudio, printing, scanning, photocopying, digital newspapers, magazines, music streaming and a wide variety of books to borrow for free. You can access support to get online at many of the county’s libraries, including Oxfordshire County Library. Book a free appointment with a volunteer to guide you with computers, tablets and navigating the internet.

Training courses