Supporting Communities to Get Online

The internet is now essential for everyday life, from applying for jobs and accessing benefits to managing money and staying in touch with loved ones. Yet millions of people across the UK remain digitally excluded due to a lack of access, devices, skills, or confidence. The National Digital Inclusion Network is working to change that.

What Is the National Digital Inclusion Network?

The National Digital Inclusion Network is a UK-wide movement made up of over 7,300 community-based organisations, known as Digital Inclusion Hubs. These hubs work locally to help people get online, often offering:

  • Free internet access.
  • Refurbished devices such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones (distributed via local hubs).
  • Help with digital skills, from using email or online banking to applying for benefits.

The Network was originally known as the Online Centres Network, founded in 2011, and is coordinated by the charity Good Things Foundation, which leads digital inclusion efforts across the UK.

Why Is Digital Inclusion Important?

Being digitally excluded can affect almost every part of daily life. People who aren’t online or confident using digital tools may struggle with:

  • Accessing health services, including booking appointments or using NHS apps.
  • Applying for Universal Credit or managing benefits.
  • Finding or applying for jobs.
  • Paying bills or managing finances.
  • Staying in touch with friends and family.
  • Keeping up with news, learning, and personal development.

This can lead to social isolation, financial exclusion, and missed opportunities. Digital exclusion particularly affects older adults, disabled people, those on low incomes, and people in rural or disadvantaged areas.

What Digital Inclusion Hubs Offer

Digital Inclusion Hubs tailor their services to meet local community needs. Support can include:

  • Free mobile data via the National Databank.
  • Free refurbished devices through the National Device Bank.
  • Free digital skills training via the Learn My Way platform.
  • Face-to-face help from friendly volunteers in community centres, libraries, housing associations, food banks, and other local spaces.

Some hubs also offer support in multiple languages or tailored help for people with additional needs.

Note: Some services have eligibility criteria (for example, limited income or no access to the internet), so it’s best to check details with your local hub.

Key Services Delivered by the Network

  • National Databank – Free mobile data SIM cards and top-ups for people who can’t afford internet access.
  • National Device Bank – Refurbished smartphones, tablets, and laptops donated by businesses and redistributed to those in need via local hubs.
  • Learn My Way – A free, accessible online platform offering beginner-friendly courses on internet use, online safety, money management, and more.
  • Local Digital Skills Sessions – In-person help from volunteers and staff in safe, trusted environments.

These services address the three main barriers to digital inclusion: lack of data, lack of devices, and lack of digital skills.

In February 2025, the UK Government launched its Digital Inclusion Action Plan, strengthening partnerships with charities like Good Things Foundation. The plan established a Digital Inclusion and Skills Unit and a Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, supporting local hubs tackling digital and data poverty. The work of the National Digital Inclusion Network aligns closely with this national strategy, translating government policy into meaningful local action.

In June 2025, the Minimum Digital Living Standard (MDLS) was introduced by the University of Liverpool, Loughborough University, and Good Things Foundation. The MDLS defines what households need to be digitally included, a benchmark now shaping future policy, funding, and measurement of digital inclusion across the UK.

Benefits of Joining the Network (For Organisations)

Organisations that join the National Digital Inclusion Network gain:

  • Free access to the National Databank and Device Bank.
  • Access to the Learn My Way platform and learning tools.
  • Opportunities for training, networking, and sharing the best practice.
  • Eligibility for digital inclusion grants and funding to expand local support.
  • The chance to be part of a UK-wide movement tackling digital inequality.

How to Join the National Digital Inclusion Network

It’s free to join, but members must commit to delivering at least one service that supports digital inclusion in their community, such as offering digital skills help, distributing devices, or providing data.

You can join if you are a:

  • Community centre or library.
  • Charity or voluntary organisation.
  • Housing provider.
  • Food bank.
  • School, college, or health and social care service.

Applications can be made directly via the Good Things Foundation website.

How This Links to Wider Support Services

Digital inclusion connects closely with other forms of community support, including:

  • Mental health – Many NHS talking therapies and self-help resources (e.g., Every Mind Matters) are now online.
  • Benefits and employment – Universal Credit, Access to Work, and Jobcentre services are primarily digital.
  • Education – Children and adults rely on online access for homework, learning, and career progression.
  • Social connection – Digital tools can help isolated people reconnect with friends, family, and peer support.

The Digital Inclusion Network works with partners to ensure no one is left behind due to digital barriers, helping people access wider wellbeing, financial, and social support. This nationwide initiative is an essential lifeline for people excluded from the digital world. By removing the barriers of access, skills, and confidence, it helps individuals unlock essential services, opportunities, and human connection.

Whether you’re an organisation looking to support your community or an individual needing help to get online, the Network can help. Together, we can close the digital divide and build a more connected, inclusive UK.

Don’t Forget

If you or someone you support is on a low income, receiving certain benefits, or living with a health condition, you may qualify for free energy-saving improvements through ECO4 or the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). These government-funded programmes are designed to help by:

  • Improving home insulation and heating.
  • Reducing energy bills.
  • Creating warmer, healthier living spaces.

Check your eligibility here, it’s quick, easy, and could make a real difference to comfort and household finances.