Thousands of residents benefit from digital inclusion thanks to council’s £800,000 UKSPF funding

An imaginative project has been driving digital inclusion across Stoke-on-Trent thanks to more than £800,000 of funding from the city council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

DigitALL, a ground-breaking initiative created by community interest company Wavemaker, has helped thousands of people across the city gain the digital confidence needed to seize opportunities in work, education and everyday life.

This has been made possible with the support of partners including The Inspirational Learning Group (TILG), Raparu Consult CIC and Framescape as well as benefitting from being awarded £552,417 through the council in 2024/2025 and a further £262,575 this year.

UKSPF is funded by the UK government and has provided £2.6 billion for local investment across the country. It aims to improve pride in places and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities, supporting local businesses and people.

Wavemaker is dedicated to digital inclusion and offers tailored programmes and exceptional support to help train people and unlock their potential when it comes to digital skills.

This has included delivering innovative workshops, webinars and a range of digital resources to equip students, young people and job seekers with industry relevant skills, whilst fostering creativity.

Support includes mastering essential digital tools like word processing, presentations, spreadsheets and remote and in-office teamworking tools.

Alex Rowley, Co-Director of Wavemaker, said: “Our partnerships with The Inspirational Learning Group, Raparu, and Framescape have been pivotal in providing expertise and expanding reach for DigitAll.

“With the addition of our Digital Bursary scheme, Wavemaker Connect centres, and our online learning portal, we are taking significant steps to empower individuals and communities with the skills and technology they need, bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusion across the region.”

Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council and cabinet member for economic development, culture and sport, said: “Wavemaker is committed to bridging the digital divide and the amazing work it does helps people fulfil their potential and future prospects. 

“The DigitALL project, through its wide range of workshops and webinars, has helped transform lives across Stoke-on-Trent by giving people the digital confidence they need to thrive in education and work and bridging the digital divide.” 

For more information on the DigitALL project or to learn about upcoming workshops, visit Wavemaker’s website https://www.wavemaker.org.uk/digitall or email info@wavemaker.org.uk