About our pilot projects

Digitalisation is happening at a rapid pace. People who are not able to use computers, smart phones, tablets and other devices, or who cannot afford to access the internet, will be left behind. Norfolk has the third highest population of over 65s in the country, with many people living in rural areas. It is vital that access to digital skills and tools is as inclusive as possible.

The Tech Skills for Life project will produce a model to increase people's access to the internet. It will provide bespoke, high-quality support for people to develop the skills they need to use the internet, computers, smartphones, and other technology in their daily lives. This will include support for people who need financial help to access a device and data to get online, while reducing the cost to the public sector.

Led by Norfolk County Council, the project targets:

• Older people,
• Low-income households and families,
• Individuals with acute health conditions and disabilities, and
• Jobseekers.

West Norfolk has been chosen as the pilot area. This is because it has:

• A high population density of adults over 65-years-old,
• Limited digital activities,
• Poor connectivity, and
• Higher than average deprivation levels.

Key outputs

• Staff development programme
• Tech Skills for Life learning hubs – in person and online
• Communications plan
• Evaluation report
• Blueprint for scalability

Thematic objective(s)

• People and Skills
• Public Services

Duration

• April 2023 – March 2024

Funding

• Project budget: £233,834
• Norfolk Investment Framework funding: £233,834