Place-based digital inclusion

What is ‘place-based’ digital inclusion? 

Place-based digital inclusion is about building sustainable solutions to digital exclusion which take into consideration the assets, and needs, of a specific place – with action co-ordinated through strong and trusted partnerships and informed by regular communication with citizens.  

By understanding that digital can improve multiple outcomes for people, and through linking services up to provide holistic support for supporting people online, taking a place-based approach to digital inclusion supports a range of community-wide benefits for citizens.  

What has SCVO been doing? 

Through the Place Based Digital Inclusion programme, we've collaborated with diverse communities across Dundee, North Ayrshire, and Glasgow to co-create tailored solutions that address their unique digital inclusion challenges. Acting as facilitators and critical friends, we've undertaken a learning journey, fostering collaborative problem-solving and leveraging existing community assets.

Our structured approach – Discover, Define, Develop, and Deliver – has enabled us to engage local stakeholders, identify hidden barriers, and co-produce contextual solutions that resonate with each community's needs, communication preferences, and cultural nuances.

By empowering communities to take ownership, we've built local capacity, promoted social connectivity through such projects as the safe space women's centre in Dundee, the fixed-location media digital hub in North Ayrshire, and the community-driven digital asset map in Glasgow

In February 2022, we released our interim learning report ‘Taking a Place-based Approach to Digital Inclusion: The Journey so Far’.

Check out our webinar from February 2022, giving an overview of our learning with Renfrewshire and Berwickshire.

Get involved

Empowering Communities through Place-Based Digital Inclusion 

Are you ready to unlock the digital potential of your community? Our FREE 3-session program on place-based digital inclusion is designed to empower individual organisations, build sustainable partnerships, and foster a digitally inclusive society. With regular communication and personalized support, we are committed to bridging the digital divide and ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age.  

Session 1: Digital Empowerment Assessment 

In the first session, we will conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand the unique digital needs and challenges faced by your community. We will look at the current level of digital engagement, name barriers, and uncover opportunities for growth. By gaining insights into the specific requirements of your community, we can tailor our approach to maximize impact. 

Session 2: Training and Support 

Our sessions are interactive, engaging, and designed to cater to diverse learning styles. From basic digital literacy to advanced topics, we cover it all. Our digital inclusion team will guide participants through practical exercises, offering hands-on experience and boosting their confidence in using digital tools effectively, to unlock assets in your community.  

Session 3: Sustainable Digital Inclusion Strategies 

Building upon the foundation laid in the first two sessions, we will collaborate with your community stakeholders to develop sustainable strategies for long-term digital inclusion. Our expertise lies in leveraging technology to address social challenges, and we will work closely with you to find innovative solutions. By nurturing local partnerships and fostering collaboration, we can create lasting change and ensure a digitally inclusive environment for all. 

Why Choose Our 3-Session Program? 

• Tailored Approach: We understand that each community has unique needs. Our program is designed to be flexible and adaptable, ensuring it aligns with your specific requirements. 
• Experienced Professionals: Our team of digital inclusion officers bring a wealth of experience in digital inclusion initiatives. We have a proven record of accomplishment of empowering communities and driving positive change though the Placed Based Digital Inclusion Program.  
• Holistic Support: Our program does not end with facilitation sessions. We provide ongoing support, resources, and guidance to reinforce the skills acquired, ensuring a sustainable digital inclusion ecosystem within your community.  
• Community Engagement: We believe in the power of collaboration. By involving community stakeholders throughout the process, we ensure that the digital inclusion strategies developed are effective, relevant, and embraced by all. 

Don’t let the digital divide hold your community back. Contact us and discuss how our 3-session program to unlock and identify community asset and empower your community to pave the way for a digitally inclusive future.  

If place-based digital inclusion sounds like it could benefit your community – we’d love to hear from you.

For more information about this work, please contact: 

Darran Gillan
Digital Inclusion Development Officer 
Darran.Gillan@scvo.scot