Digital Inclusion Fund helps people in Leeds get online

We’re tackling the digital divide in Leeds, with 100% Digital Leeds and Leeds Digital Ball. Our partnership – The Leeds Digital Inclusion Fund – helps local people with the skills, support and equipment they need to be active online, now and in the future. 

Since 2022, we’ve been investing in community organisations across the city, so they can embed digital inclusion in their work. And we’re pleased to share some of the impact of the third round of grants, awarded in 2024. 

Through this round, we made nearly £73,000 in grants to 9 organisations. They each used their funding in different ways but with a shared goal – to help people engage in our digital world. 

Their activities included digital support sessions, drop-ins and workshops, and providing Wi-Fi, SIM cards and access to technology. 

And together, they supported more than 1,200 people. 

That’s 1,200 people more likely to be able to book a doctor’s appointment, or access support services, or keep in touch with their loved ones. And 1,200 people who are more confident – who feel like they can do something now that they couldn’t before. 

Yes, digital inclusion is about being able to use technology, but it goes so much further than that. 

Complete Woman said “Ultimately, the project has not only bridged the digital divide but also enhanced wellbeing, independence and inclusion within the community.” 

And the numbers show it, too. 

779 people said they’d increased their aspirations and goals thanks to taking part in the activities. 663 people feel less isolated and more connected. 652 people are more confident. 

Getting Clean shared the story of one of their participants. They had no digital experience, having always relied on other people to complete online tasks for them. They attended weekly group sessions and one-to-one support with Getting Clean. There, they learned to set up an email account, apply for Universal Credit, access housing services and use online NHS and GP services. They also started video calling and messaging with their family. 

They said “I used to feel embarrassed not knowing how to do anything online. Now I can do things for myself.” 

Since this round, we’ve awarded a fourth round of grants from The Leeds Digital Inclusion Fund. It brings the total we’ve invested to more than £300,000 – all of it supporting people across Leeds to get online. 

And with this year’s Leeds Digital Ball raising more than £75,000 for the next round, there’s even more impact to come.