20th May 2025
Empowering communities through digital confidence.
A year ago, we launched Let’s Get Digital Durham, a place-based initiative powered by Capgemini funding to help communities in County Durham tackle digital exclusion head-on. Fast forward twelve months, and the impact of this project is pleasing, writes Kate Holmes, the Project Lead.
Everyone wins with Let’s Get Digital, Durham
- Community organisations can demonstrate they are acting on one of the biggest societal issues of our time highlighted in the Government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan.
- Digital Champions share what they know, upskill and gain CPD accreditation.
- Members of the community tap into the type of digital support they need. They learn at their own pace supported by a warm and friendly Digital Champion.
It has given us the opportunity to train our staff and volunteers in aspects of digital learning that we would not have had access to otherwise. These skills have been a huge benefit to our community-based programmes across County Durham.
Project Manager
Building Self Belief
At the heart of the initiative are community organisations, each with free access to the Digital Champions Network. Staff and volunteers can take advantage of 25+ CPD-accredited courses and practical, downloadable resources designed to build their skills and confidence supporting others with digital technology.
These organisations are now home to trained Digital Champions, equipped not only with technical knowledge but also with the softer skills needed to help people who may unsure about using the internet. That includes carers, people facing financial difficulties, younger people and older people. Whether it’s helping someone book a GP appointment, apply for a job, or connect with friends and family, the Champions are making a real difference. They’re empowering people to take control of their digital lives one little step at a time.
Working with Digital Unite has been an amazing experience. Their support has had a genuinely transformative impact on our work. It’s not just about helping us with digital access — it’s about opening our eyes to how digital inclusion can become a core part of everything we do.
Digital Champion
Durham County
The first year of Let’s Get Digital Durham has shown how local, trusted support can help bridge the digital divide. By embedding digital help within existing community networks, people are more likely to engage, learn, and feel supported. Feedback from participants and organisations alike highlights increased confidence, reduced isolation, and greater independence as key outcomes.
And this is just the beginning. With the foundations now in place, there’s huge potential to expand the programme further reaching more communities, recruiting more Champions, building networks and supporting even more learners.
As we celebrate this milestone, we’re proud of what’s been achieved and excited about what lies ahead. Let’s Get Digital Durham is a shining example of what’s possible when communities and funders collaborate with us to ensure no one is left behind in our digital world.
You can find out more about Let's Get Digital Durham and how to join the scheme. Thanks to our friends at Building Self-Belief for the great pics.
Interested in getting involved?
