Local charity Forever Manchester has launched two new digital inclusion funds to tackle digital exclusion across the city, with the support of leading telecoms infrastructure provider, Cellnex UK.
Applications are now open for the Cellnex UK Digital Inclusion funds, which will grant up to £5,500 to community groups to support the development of new digital inclusion projects or activities in their local area.
Both funds focus on three main themes that align with the Greater Manchester Digital Inclusion Strategy. This includes empowering communities and places; increasing confidence, skills and motivation; and affordability, accessibility and connectivity.
The first fund will provide up to £500 to a group of local residents, or a constituted community group with an income of £2,500 or less, while the second will award up to £5,000 to encourage and support grassroots community organisations. Small, community-based and locally controlled groups that manage themselves can apply, and applicants must have an annual income of less than £150,000.
Applicants can submit proposals to use the funding in a variety of ways, from hosting digital skills sessions, to investing in refurbished computers, and making services available to support with accessing information online.
Nick Massey CEO of Forever Manchester said: ‘‘In the second decade of the 21st century, online connectivity is an absolute necessity, allowing people to access basic human services, such as healthcare and education. A lack of digital access and skills can have a huge negative impact on a person’s life, including increased loneliness and social isolation, and reduced access to jobs. In turn, leading to poorer health outcomes, a lower life expectancy and issues with financial exclusion.
“This partnership between Cellnex UK and Forever Manchester will provide funding for community groups across Greater Manchester whose projects focus on tackling digital inclusion’’.
Claire Cranton, Head of ESG at Cellnex UK commented: “Digital inclusion is essential for creating a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the increasingly connected world.
“Local groups understand how they can work best to promote digital inclusion in their communities. We hope the Digital Inclusion Fund will give communities the chance to fund projects that allow them to develop their skills and improve the opportunities available to them going forward.”
Groups interested in applying for the £500 award are urged to submit their entries soon, as applications will close once all funding has been fully allocated. The deadline for the second award of up to £5,000 is Friday 18th August 2023.
