What we think at Wavemaker
We were genuinely encouraged to see this Government approach to Digital Inclusion. To be honest, it felt like a bit of a lightbulb moment – because it’s exactly what we’ve been doing at Wavemaker for the last nine years… and especially over the past year through our DigitAll UKSPF-funded programme.
The plan talks about increasing access, boosting confidence, supporting local delivery… and that’s exactly what we’ve been focused on.
We’ve created a Device and Databank that’s already helping people who can’t afford tech or data get connected. We’ve partnered with local community centres and groups to turn them into Wavemaker Connect Hubs – safe, welcoming spaces where people can access equipment, free internet, and our DigitAll learning platform, which covers everything from basic digital skills to employment and wellbeing-focused training.
We’ve done all this by building strong partnerships with local authorities, health services, and community organisations. And while we’re proud of what we’ve achieved – this is only the start. We’ve got so many ideas we’re ready to implement. We’ve built the model, we’ve proven it works. What we now need is investment to grow it.
We’re a small team based in Stoke-on-Trent, and with the right funding, we can scale this nationally. We’d coordinate everything from here, creating jobs locally while building a network of Wavemaker Hubs and Connect sites across the UK.
We also want to highlight that collaboration is key. We really respect the work Good Things Foundation has done in this space, and we’d welcome the opportunity to work more closely with them. We’re not here to compete – we’re here to complement. Together, we believe we can create a truly joined-up, national approach to digital inclusion.
It’s about more than just digital skills – it’s about making sure no one is left behind as everything moves online.