DigitALL Project

The DigitALL Project is a partnership of third-sector organisations set up to tackle digital exclusion in north west London. The project has gone from strength to strength, delivering weekly one-to-one and group sessions alongside outreach support for people who are unable to leave their homes.  

The real benefit of DigitALL is its size and strength: by working with a range of community organisations specialising in support for older people (Open Age and Age UK in three boroughs), adults with learning disabilities (Mencap and Learning Disability Network) and English for Speakers of Other Languages communities (Iranian Association), we’re able to ensure that our digital support is tailored to the needs of each individual.   

DigitALL tackles various barriers to digital inclusion: we provide access to devices and free connectivity; offer bespoke training packages and on-going support to help build skills, knowledge and confidence; and educate participants about the social benefits of being online. Our flexible approach has enabled us to run sessions in other languages, for carers, bereaved participants and other groups that benefit from shared experience.   

So far, over 400 people in some of the most socio-economically deprived areas of north west London have been supported through digital skills training. 94% of participants have reported improvement in their levels of happiness and 97% report an increase in the feeling that what they do in their life is worthwhile. This stems from participants driving their own learning: our project allows them to actively chart their own path away from digital exclusion.    

Tiblez, a DigitALL learner, said: “I can’t visit my family in Eritrea anymore. I learnt about email and using Zoom so I can speak to them, and my tutor explained I could take the tablet home. DigitALL is simple and the fact it is free makes a difference, and gives me hope now for the future. My life is changed.”