Norfolk's digital inclusion strategy

November 2021

Over the past 18 months the pace of change and embedding of digital services has surged forward. At the same time, the impact of digital exclusion has been keenly felt by those who are disproportionately affected. In many cases this has widened inequalities that already existed.

Across the nation, 1.2 million more people gained basic internet abilities during the pandemic. Others have become more isolated. They're less able to access key services and struggle with elements of everyday life such as shopping and banking. It's estimated in the UK there are more than 7 million (11%) adults without basic internet skills.

In Norfolk we're proud of how we've supported residents to become more digitally included. We've provided both access and skills.

This strategy takes the key learnings from the last 18 months and shapes a strategic plan that develops and embeds digital inclusion further.

This strategy aims to supports the outcomes of Together for Norfolk. This is by enabling our residents to:

• Have digital skills for work
• Engage with their communities and local resources
• Thrive in today's digital world