In 2024, seven North East local authorities formed the Minimum Digital Living Standard (MDLS) Task Group to support everyone who wants to be online to get online and help them access the skills, equipment and support needed to use technology safely, affordably, and confidently.
This collaborative region-wide initiative will reduce digital exclusion by delivering tailored, inclusive digital support to those most affected by poverty, disability, unemployment, and social isolation.
So far, our place-based approach has embedded technology across three key areas:
- Infrastructure: All LA areas have mapped free Wi-Fi and device access so people can access internet services more easily and we can identify gaps and barriers in access that can be addressed.
- Services: All LAs have launched digital inclusion webpages as trusted hubs for local support.
- Capability: Across each of the LAs dedicated DI leads have been appointed to align policy with delivery and coordinate with partners for more effective delivery of interventions.
Impact Highlights:
- AI-driven mapping pinpoints high-risk areas for targeted interventions.
- Digital inclusion webpages showing mapped access points provide clear pathways to free Wi-Fi, devices, data, and 1:1 support.
- Essential digital skills training enables residents to access jobs, benefits, health services, and local authority platforms securely.
- Improved accessibility reduces the “digital penalty” for those with limited connectivity or literacy.
This approach embeds digital inclusion into everyday services, supporting wider goals such as economic inclusion, health and wellbeing, community resilience, and efficient public services—making digital a gateway to opportunity for all.
