Appendix B: Engagement Process and Stakeholder Involvement

In 2022, Gloucestershire County Council and Barnwood Trust commissioned the 'Digital Divides' report, which provided a comprehensive local evidence base to inform our strategy for improving digital inclusion. The report highlighted several key recommendations, including developing a Strategic Plan for Digital Inclusion in Gloucestershire and connecting with regional and national initiatives. This proactive engagement aims to ensure our county capitalises on opportunities and implements fundamental changes in navigating the complexities of digital exclusion. It emphasises a shared responsibility across sectors to invest in long-term strategic approaches.

Digital Divides also underscored Gloucestershire's diverse community sets, which are collaborating to tackle digital exclusion. The report noted that a substantial amount of support is provided through voluntary and charitable efforts, with a notable increase during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many effective VCSE initiatives exist to combat digital exclusion, these organisations often face limitations regarding resources, skills, and equipment.

Key findings from the report indicate that individuals facing digital exclusion often experience other socio-economic pressures. For instance, those accessing food banks due to food poverty are frequently also affected by digital poverty. Recognising these touchpoints presents an opportunity to address broader inclusion issues. 

Integrating digital inclusion into various support roles will create a more comprehensive support system, whether through designing singular programmes or linking existing initiatives. Establishing a countywide strategy coupled with a dedicated digital inclusion network will facilitate the coordination of activities that address digital needs and broader community support.

To further this partnership focused approach, we are actively:

• Building meaningful relationships with stakeholders involved in or impacted by digital inclusion.
• Forming a Digital Inclusion Strategy Advisory Group to inform our strategy and ensure it aligns with community needs
• Collaborating across all council departments
• Leveraging our long-standing relationships with infrastructure providers
• Working in partnership with other local bodies
• Continuing our connection with the Good Things Foundation
• Working alongside the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) Project Gigabit initiative by the UK Government

As we begin our digital innovation journey, our intention is to first establish the research and partnerships necessary to build a fully developed and actionable plan. This foundational phase will be guided by our four strategic pillars: Smart People, Smart Gloucestershire, Smart Futures, and Smart Sustainability.

To deliver on these ambitions, we will actively engage with businesses, public sector bodies, and VCSE organisations to co-design and co-deliver solutions that reflect the needs of our communities. This includes:

• Smart People: Partnering with employers and training providers to expand digital skills and inclusion programmes, particularly for those facing socio-economic pressures.
• Smart Gloucestershire: Collaborating with infrastructure providers and local businesses to improve connectivity and access to digital services across the county.
• Smart Futures: Working with innovation hubs, tech companies, and academic institutions and digital adopters and users to explore emerging technologies and pilot new approaches to digital inclusion.
• Smart Sustainability: Engaging with organisations committed to environmental and social responsibility to ensure our digital initiatives support long-term resilience and sustainability.

These initiatives reflect our ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive digital environment for all citizens of Gloucestershire.

Case Studies