Reaching out to those in our community

As a small accessible digital hub we have to implement strategies to ensure we can reach people who are not online. The following is a community map outlining what we do:

🌍 1. Use Offline and In‑Person Channels

Because digital routes won’t reach them, lean into traditional methods:

• Flyers and posters in GP surgeries, libraries, community centres, cafes, food banks, schools, and places of worship.

• Local radio announcements.

• Door‑knocking campaigns, if appropriate.

• Community noticeboards (physical ones!).

• Word of mouth—partner with people who already know the community.

🤝 2. Work Through Trusted Community Connectors

People are more likely to engage if approached by someone they recognise and trust:

• Faith leaders

• Community group organisers

• Housing officers

• Social workers

• Food bank volunteers

• Local councillors

• Library staff

They often know who is digitally excluded and why.

🧩 3. Offer Support, Not Just Access

Digital exclusion is usually caused by at least one of three barriers:

1. Skills

People may not know how to use devices, apps, or web services.

• Offer free drop‑in digital help sessions.

• Provide one‑to-one coaching rather than classes (less intimidating).

• Use plain language—no jargon.

2. Access / Devices

Some cannot afford a smartphone, laptop, or broadband.

• Partner with organisations that run device donation schemes.

• Provide or signpost to free SIMs, low‑cost broadband, community Wi‑Fi.

3. Confidence

Some people think:

• “I’m too old for this”

• “What if I break it?”

• “I don’t want to look silly”

Focus on friendly, patient volunteers and start with what they care about:photos of family, WhatsApp, bus timetables, GP appointments, etc.

📍 4. Take the Service to Them

Don’t make people come to you—reduce friction.

Ideas:

• Pop‑up digital help desks at community events.

• Digital support in GP waiting rooms.

• Drop‑ins at libraries, supermarkets, or community cafes.

• Mobile outreach vans with Wi‑Fi and devices.

This removes travel and confidence barriers.

🏡 5. Focus on Hyper‑Local Solutions

Digital exclusion varies street by street. Tailor the approach to your area:

• Work with housing associations (they often know which households struggle).

• Partner with local schools—parents may be digitally excluded.

• Use local charities for neighbourhood‑specific challenges.

💬 6. Communicate the Benefits Clearly

Instead of saying “learn digital skills”, focus on what people care about:

• Cheaper utility bills

• Booking GP appointments

• Staying in touch with family

• Accessing community support

• Applying for jobs or benefits

People engage more when the outcome is meaningful to them.

📊 7. Understand Their Barriers First

Before designing a programme, talk to the community:

• Run short offline surveys (paper forms).

• Hold listening events.

• Use community leaders to gather insight.

This avoids assuming what people need.

❤️ 8. Make It Safe and Personal

People may worry about:

• scams

• sharing personal info

• messing up

• being judged

So:

• Take a non‑judgemental, patient approach.

• Keep it private (one‑to‑one support often works best).

• Provide trusted guidance on online safety.

🚀 9. Partner Smartly

You don’t have to do it alone. Useful partners include:

• Local councils / digital inclusion teams

• Libraries

• Good Things Foundation

• Age UK

• Citizens Advice

• Local volunteer hubs

• Housing associations

• NHS community health teams

They may already have funding, training, devices, and networks.

🔍 10. Track What Works (Simply)

Keep notes on:

• How many people you reach

• What support they needed

• What barriers they faced

• What methods worked best

It helps improve future outreach and justify funding.

Mart & Karen at our digital support drop in.