The Digital Hubs Project

Tackling digital exclusion across Gloucestershire

The Digital Hubs Project is a new innovative approach, developed by Forest Voluntary Action Forum and GCC Adult Transformation Team, to tackle digital exclusion across Gloucestershire by offering free, accessible, tailored support to individuals.

Starting out in October 2021, we have played the as role as county wide facilitator of the project in partnership with GCC’s Adult Transformation Team. Whilst being facilitator’s, we act as the Forest of Dean lead district provider, offering FREE 1:1 digital support across safe and trusted Community Drop-in Hubs.

Coleford – Sixteen Community Cafe
Sedbury – Sedbury Space
Cinderford - Ow Bist - Forest Community Space
Staunton – The Swan Community Hub
Newent – The Chill Out Zone

What does Digital Hubs aim to address?

Motivation

Not everyone sees why using the internet could be relevant and helpful

A Digital Hub can demonstrate the huge benefits

Confidence

Some people fear online crime, lack trust or don’t know where to start online

A Digital Hub can increase confidence via trusted relationships 

Skills

Not everyone has the ability to use the internet and online services

A digital Hub can provide 1:1 training

Access

Not everyone has the ability to connect to the internet and go online

A Digital Hub can provide access to free equipment and internet

Since starting the journey of Gloucestershire Digital Hubs Project, awareness and recognition of the project has grown and is now recognised as essential community-based approach to tackling digital exclusion across Gloucestershire.

Notability, the project was highlighted in the Report of the Director of Public health 2022/23 - No Person is an island: Social connections in Gloucestershire, which also included video cased study of the project.

You can also  download the PDF version (PDF, 5.2 MB)  of Director of Public health 2022/23

For more information about the project visit the Digital Hub website HERE

To find out more, dates, times and locations for upcoming FVAF Community Digital Drop-in Hubs, contact Alex on community@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073.