The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is the membership organisation for Scotland's charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises. Charity registered in Scotland SC003558. Registered office Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh EH3 6BB.
Promoting your digital inclusion will increase engagement. Letting your service users and wider networks know is important. Taking the right approach to engagement is also vital.
Let your service users know that they can get help with digital as part of your support offer. As you have a trusted relationship, they are more likely to seek your help than having to go to a new service or project.
Use your digital communication channels like your website, social media and email. But don't forget to use more traditional promotional approaches. This will help you to reach those who aren't online or confident on the platforms your use. You could use posters, postcards, banners, newsletters or radio adverts to reach these people. Your promotion will also reach friends and family who can advocate about digital.
Don’t forget to celebrate the successes of your digital inclusion work both big and small. Capture case studies, share regular updates and feature it in your annual reports.
Look for existing engagement opportunities or community settings to promote your support. For example, have your Digital Champions on hand at a community cafe, event or session. Places where people are already engaged and comfortable helps to spark interest.
Lead with the benefits to the individual rather than 'doing digital'. Saving money, connecting with family or accessing a service are examples. This will be what motivates them to engage and improve their digital skills
Let your networks know about your digital inclusion support too. They can help with referrals and potential partnership working.
The impact of varied promotion
by Samantha Hough. Langstane Housing Association
Increase engagement by using existing community settings to promote Digital Champions
The impact of demonstrating the benefits for their tenants to encourage interest
“We went into places that people were comfortable, and the engagement was far better. We managed to engage with many people by asking them what they would be able to do with an extra £800?”
Libby Bligh, Chief Executive of the Libertie Project
