Support for older, disabled and digitally excluded residents in rural communities to build confidence using technology and access essential services such as healthcare, benefits and banking online.
Estimated Price
8500
1. What we want to do
Digital Access Network CIC will deliver practical, one-to-one digital support sessions for older adults, disabled people, and adults experiencing digital exclusion within rural and underserved communities in Highland.
Funding will support the delivery of community-based support to help participants use smartphones, tablets, and computers to complete everyday essential tasks online. This includes booking NHS appointments, managing benefits such as Universal Credit, accessing local authority services, communicating with family and support networks, and safely using online banking and public services.
Sessions will also cover online safety awareness, password management, scam prevention, and confidence building to enable participants to manage digital tasks independently.
Funding will be used to support staff delivery time, travel to rural locations, accessible learning materials, and outreach to engage individuals who may otherwise be unable to access support.
2. Why our project is important for the community?
Many residents in rural and island communities experience digital exclusion due to lack of confidence, accessibility needs, or limited local provision of support. As more essential services move online, individuals who cannot access or use digital systems face barriers to healthcare, financial support, employment opportunities, and communication.
This project supports priorities identified within local Place Plans relating to improving access to services, reducing inequality, supporting older residents to live independently, and addressing rural isolation.
By providing practical support to access essential online systems, the project will help reduce inequality of access and ensure that digitally excluded residents are not disadvantaged by digital-by-default service delivery.
3. What positive impact will we have?
Participants will gain the skills and confidence needed to access essential services independently, reducing reliance on crisis support and improving their ability to manage healthcare appointments, benefits, financial services, and communication.
Expected outcomes include:
• Improved confidence using digital devices
• Increased ability to access health and public services
• Reduced social isolation
• Improved access to financial and welfare support
• Greater independence in managing everyday tasks
The project will also improve wellbeing by helping participants remain connected to their communities and support networks.
4. What key milestones have we achieved so far and what will our next steps be?
The organisation has been established as a Community Interest Company with a clear community benefit purpose.
Community engagement has taken place through discussions with local organisations and community groups regarding digital exclusion and barriers to accessing online services.
A project plan and business case have been developed outlining delivery approach and anticipated outcomes.
Initial funding applications are being submitted to support pilot delivery.
Next steps include confirming delivery locations with partner organisations, finalising outreach activity, and commencing support sessions upon receipt of funding.
5. What is our anticipated start date/end date?
The project is anticipated to begin in June 2026, subject to funding approval, and will run for an initial twelve-month delivery period until May 2027.
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