Norfolk's digital inclusion strategy

Our outcome is to provide free and refreshed devices for target groups, enabling people to access hardware they wouldn't otherwise be able to afford. This supports them to learn, progress their careers and become socially included.

We can address health inequalities by removing the barriers to accessing digital services with devices and face-to-face support. This helps people to access vital health and support services. In turn this reduces social isolation and reduces or delays further support needs as a result.

Assistive technology loan libraries provide opportunities to trial assistive technology. Staff who understand the benefits and application will guide library users. It allows people to maintain or increase independence, employment opportunities and improve wellbeing.

People will be able to borrow devices from libraries so they can 'try before they buy'. It builds confidence and a desire to learn more. Wraparound support helps them learn how to get the most from their device.

Strategic plan: what we will do

Distributing devices

Information Management Technology (IMT) will refurbish and distribute devices across Norfolk, both Norfolk County Council (NCC) refreshed equipment and devices from other large public and private sector Norfolk organisations. We will target these devices at schools, digitally excluded and low-income adults, and voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE) organisations. Our Libraries and a team of digital support volunteers will provide wrap around troubleshooting support.

We aim for 80% of those supported to say that receiving a device has made a significant positive impact. We also aim to provide 1,000 devices to people annually.

Borrowing devices

We will put in place a loan device suite in Libraries and schools, where people can borrow a device, try it, build their confidence. They can get early help so that they can "try before they buy". This takes the risk out of accessing digital devices and services.

We aim for 80% of those who receive this support offer to say that they have become more confident using digital services.

Assistive technology loans

Libraries will provide assistive tech loans. This will allow Norfolk residents, carers, and care providers to test equipment that may help them or those they care for, and get help and advice. This support will help people to stay independent and connected in their homes, improve their wellbeing and access services that support their wider health and care needs.

We aim for 80% of those provided with an assistive tech loan to say it made a difference to their lives by reducing their support needs or helping them to stay independent.

Business support

Support small businesses and new startups to be sustainable in the digital world. We will provide simple to access support from the Business and Intellectual Property Centres run by Norfolk Libraries. Adult Learning will provide wrap around training courses, including social media for business and e-commerce. We will further embed support for small businesses with the Go Digital project roll out of a free business support programme for micro, small and medium sized businesses in Norfolk.

We aim to support 600 businesses through Go Digital.

Creative digital technology

Develop the use of creative digital technologies by increasing the reach and regularity of events like 'Digifest'. Inspire young people to enter a career in digital creative industries.
This target is under development.