IFB Gaming

Loading

Category Digital Inclusion

ifb gaming logo banner

1M people at risk of digital exclusion supported through Good Things Foundation

On the morning of 29th April 2025, my first email of the day was from the Good Things Foundation. The subject line immediately caught my attention: “You helped us reach a milestone.” It wasn’t just a message — it was a moment.

I’ve followed the work of Good Things Foundation since 2007, long before meeting Helen Milner, their CEO, at the launch of Web Roots Democracy in 2015/16. That encounter was particularly meaningful for me. Helen was leading large-scale digital inclusion efforts in the real world, while I was exploring similar goals through the lens of gaming and play. Her success and leadership reaffirmed the direction of my own work with IFB Gaming.

The email shared something extraordinary: together, we have now supported over 1 million people at risk of digital exclusion. It’s a milestone that speaks volumes.

At IFB Gaming, we’re incredibly proud to contribute to this collective achievement through the National Digital Inclusion Network. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, shared learning, and a unified approach to tackling digital inequality. Through standardised training modules, inclusive knowledge-sharing, and strong networks, we are proving what is possible when purpose and partnership align.

What’s Next for IFB Gaming?

1. Tackling Digital Exclusion

“Following the launch of the UK Government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan, making a clear commitment to addressing digital inclusion – Helen Milner (CEO of Good Things Foundation) has challenged companies to do the same.” 

At IFB Gaming, our mission has always been to create inclusive, digitally connected communities through innovation, play, and purpose-driven collaboration. As we look ahead, we’re proud to share that our work is evolving — expanding beyond Southwark to reach more like-minded organisations across London and the UK.

We remain firmly committed to demonstrating practical, sustainable uses of technology. Our ongoing collaboration with Community TechAid exemplifies this approach, showing what’s possible when grassroots ingenuity meets community need. Together, we are not only closing the digital divide — we’re laying the foundations for a circular tech economy that values reuse, access, and inclusion.

To support this expansion, we’re also introducing new Data Waypoints across Southwark and beyond — trusted hubs where people can safely access data, devices, and digital guidance tailored to their needs.

This is more than growth. It’s impact with intent. And it’s only possible because of the partnerships, people, and communities that power everything we do.

2. Engaging one million people

Reaching one million people at risk of digital exclusion is a milestone worth celebrating — and we’re honoured to have played a part in it. Led by the Good Things Foundation, this achievement is more than a number; it represents a shared commitment to inclusive, equitable access to the digital world.

At IFB Gaming, our Empowering Futures initiative is grounded in research, learning, and collaboration. As a hybrid organisation focused on the intersection of play, digital skills, and social change, we view the work of Good Things Foundation as instrumental to our mission and model.

We are proud to stand alongside such a dedicated, forward-thinking group. Together, we are shaping a more inclusive, more connected world — from one organisation, one opportunity, and one initiative at a time.

3. Get Online Week 2025

Get Online Week is an annual campaign that champions digital inclusion across the UK, encouraging people to improve their digital skills and access the benefits of being connected.

At IFB Gaming, we proudly ran our first Get Online Week campaign in 2015. This year marks our 10th consecutive year of participation — a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to bridging the digital divide.

Our 2023 campaign had a particularly powerful impact, earning us a nomination for the Southwark Business Excellence Award in the Contribution to Community category. It was also featured in Community Southwark’s Success Stories, recognising the meaningful difference our work continues to make at the grassroots level.

As we prepare for this year’s campaign, we remain as committed as ever to ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age.

Network’s next steps

Good Things Foundation has issued a timely call to action to FTSE 250 companies, urging them to take responsibility and lead on digital inclusion. The appeal could not come at a more critical moment. It aligns perfectly with the UK Government’s renewed focus on digital inclusion, the introduction of coalition guides, and our purpose at the National Digital Inclusion Network. This isn’t just policy — it’s a movement. And you can be part of it.

At IFB Gaming, we believe that genuine digital inclusion is only possible through a dual approach — one that drives change from the bottom up and the top down. While our community-first work continues through the Empowering Futures programme, we also recognise the urgent need for systemic action from industry leaders, policymakers, and institutions.

We are proud to stand at this intersection — where grassroots impact meets structural advocacy. In the months ahead, we will continue to diversify our Empowering Futures programme across London, expanding our reach and deepening our engagement with underserved communities and like-minded organisations. Central to this effort is the rollout of additional Data Waypoints — trusted spaces where individuals can access connectivity, tools, and tailored digital support.

This is our commitment: to build inclusive digital futures not just by responding to need, but by reshaping the systems that create and sustain exclusion.

Whether you’re a corporate leader, a community organiser, or a concerned citizen, the time to act is now. Let’s build a digitally inclusive society — together, from every direction.

pen, paper and coffee feature banner

What social impact means to us at Empowering Futures

At IFB Gaming, social impact isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the reason we exist.

Our social and planetary initiative—Empowering Futures—is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to the tools, skills, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digitally driven world. Whether it’s distributing SIM cards, launching broadband hubs, or running game-based learning programmes, everything we do is measured by the real-life change it creates for individuals and communities.

We define social impact as the measurable and meaningful difference our initiatives make—particularly for those most at risk of exclusion. This includes:

  • Improved access to digital tools and services
  • Increased participation in education and employment
  • Enhanced wellbeing and confidence
  • Stronger community connections and collaboration

But we don’t stop at meeting immediate needs. We aim to build long-term resilience, tackle systemic barriers, and champion equity from the ground up. That’s why our programmes are designed with sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation at their core.

From digital skills hubs to inclusive mentorship and gaming for good, our mission is clear: Empower people. Strengthen communities. Shift what’s possible.

Tackling Digital Exclusion with Human-Focused Innovation

In a world driven by technology, true innovation is not just about creating new tools—it’s about ensuring those tools empower people. Human-focused innovation puts people at the center of problem-solving, ensuring solutions are accessible, inclusive, and impactful. At IFB Gaming, we embody this approach by leveraging gaming and digital inclusion to bridge the technology gap for underserved communities.

The Challenge: Digital Exclusion

Millions worldwide face digital exclusion, lacking access to devices, internet connectivity, and digital literacy. This gap is more than just technological—it’s social and economic. Without digital access, individuals struggle to apply for jobs, access education, or even communicate effectively. This is where human-focused innovation comes into play, ensuring that no one is left behind in an increasingly digital world.

IFB Gaming’s Approach: A Use Case in Action

One of our key initiatives at IFB Gaming is Empowering Futures, where we provide free SIM cards, devices, and digital skills training to refugees, low-income individuals, and those with no recourse to public funds through Community Organisations. This initiative isn’t just about handing out technology—it’s about ensuring people can use it to improve their lives.

Take, for example, Amira, a refugee who arrived in the UK with limited digital skills. Without internet access, she struggled to find housing, apply for jobs, or connect with her family back home. Through our initiative, Amira received a SIM card, free digital literacy training, and guidance on using online job platforms. Within months, she secured a stable job, regained financial independence, and started building a new life. This transformation was possible because the innovation wasn’t just technical—it was human-focused.

The Impact: Technology as an Equalizer

By focusing on people first, we turn technology into an equalizer rather than a barrier. Our work at IFB Gaming demonstrates that gaming, connectivity, and digital literacy can go beyond entertainment; they can drive social change. Whether it’s through digital training, gaming for education, or sustainable tech access, we ensure that innovation works for everyone, not just a privileged few.

Scaling Human-Focused Innovation

The future of technology must be built with people at its core. At IFB Gaming, we are committed to expanding our efforts, collaborating with partners, and creating even more impact-driven solutions that make digital inclusion a reality for all.

Interested in collaborating or supporting our mission? Join us in shaping a more inclusive digital world.

Why we are out-standing in Gaming

In a world where gaming is often seen as just entertainment or e-sports, IFB Gaming is breaking boundaries and redefining what gaming can achieve.

At its core, IFB Gaming isn’t just another gaming organisation—it’s a movement for social good, digital inclusion, and sustainability. Here’s why IFB Gaming is different and why its mission matters now more than ever.

1. Gaming as a Tool for Empowerment

While most gaming organisations focus on profit or competitive play, IFB Gaming uses gaming as a catalyst for social change. From equipping underserved communities with digital skills to empowering individuals to bridge the digital divide, IFB Gaming proves that gaming has the power to transform lives.

Through initiatives like Empowering Futures, IFB Gaming has distributed free SIM cards, delivered winter care packages, and provided critical support for individuals with limited access to technology. Gaming isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about inclusion and connection.

2. Addressing the Digital Divide

Unlike traditional gaming companies, IFB Gaming prioritises accessibility and digital inclusion. Its mission is rooted in ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, can thrive in a digital-first world.

From refugees to those with no recourse to public support, IFB Gaming extends a hand to those often left behind. By offering workshops, tools, and gaming platforms, the organisation bridges the gap for communities at the margins of the digital revolution.

3. A Sustainable Approach to Gaming

IFB Gaming leads the charge in green gaming. By advocating for sustainable tech use, energy efficiency, and recycling e-waste, it aligns its practices with global sustainability goals. In an era of climate urgency, IFB Gaming’s commitment to sustainability gives it a competitive edge and positions gaming as a force for environmental good.

4. Health and Accessibility Through Collaboration

Collaborating with NHS Digital, IFB Gaming is driving change in healthcare. By testing the usability of the NHS app and website, IFB Gaming ensures that these platforms are accessible, relatable, and effective for diverse communities. Its work in diversifying datasets and understanding barriers to healthcare access is shaping a more inclusive NHS for England.

5. Advocacy for Policy Change

IFB Gaming isn’t just about creating impactful programmes—it’s about influencing systems. The organisation actively works with policymakers, using research and real-world stories to advocate for policies that close the digital divide, promote education, and address inequalities.

6. Innovation with Measurable Impact

Unlike many competitors, IFB Gaming focuses on community-driven innovation. Its multiplayer online social formation framework fosters connection, inclusion, and transformation in both gaming and real-life contexts. The organisation also measures its impact, ensuring that its initiatives deliver tangible results in digital literacy, healthcare access, and environmental sustainability.

IFB Gaming stands apart by putting social good, sustainability, and inclusivity at the heart of gaming. It’s not just a gaming organisation—we are leading the way in using technology to create a better, more equitable world.

Digital Inclusion: Bridging the Digital Divide This Festive Season

This Christmas, the message of connection has never been more meaningful. Virgin Media O2’s new festive advert, Snowing SIMs, captures the spirit of giving by highlighting their incredible SIM card initiative through the National Databank.

At IFB Gaming, we are proud to be part of this inspiring mission, ensuring that no one is left behind in today’s digital world.

Tackling Digital Inclusion through the National Databank

According to Good Things reporting, 2 million households have no home internet, and 2.4 million can’t afford a mobile phone contract. This lack of access often affects vulnerable people facing other inequalities, hence the introduction of the National Databank in 2021.

The National Databank is like a foodbank but for mobile data, the National Databank provides free mobile SIM cards for people who can’t access the internet. Read about the National Databank on Good Things Foundation’s website.

Through our membership with the National Databank, IFB Gaming plays a pivotal role in distributing free SIM cards to those most affected by data poverty in London.

Together, we’re not just delivering connectivity—we’re creating opportunities, fostering inclusion, and paving the way for a digitally empowered future.”

Digital inclusion: Free SIM Cards

For many, the festive season is a time of joy and togetherness. But for others, particularly those facing digital exclusion, it can be a stark reminder of isolation.

In London alone, thousands struggle with data poverty, unable to access the internet for vital services, job opportunities, or simply to connect with loved ones.

Through our membership with the National Digital Inclusion Network, IFB Gaming has distributed free SIM cards to those who need them most. This includes individuals on low incomes, refugees, asylum seekers, people with English as Second Language, British Sign Language Users, and others without recourse to public funds.

These SIM cards provide not just data, but a lifeline to the digital world—a tool to empower and uplift.

The Power of Connection
Virgin Media O2’s “Snowing SIMs” campaign beautifully showcases how something as small as a SIM card can make a big difference. Whether it’s supporting someone in applying for a job, participating in an online class, or staying connected with loved ones, this initiative goes beyond technology—it is about creating opportunities, fostering inclusion, and preparing the UK for a future of technological maturity and beyond. Virgin Media O2 is at the forefront, driving this essential and transformative change.

Snowing Sims’ – Christmas Ad by Virgin Media O2

Digital Inclusion: A Mission for London and Beyond

At IFB Gaming, we’ve seen first-hand how access to data transforms lives. London is a city of opportunity, but for many, digital exclusion creates barriers to participation.

By working together with the National Databank and like-minded partners, we’re helping to break down these barriers, one SIM card at a time. Read about our recent “Empowering Futures” and “Winter Data Care” initiative on Community Southwark’s website.

How Can Your Organisation Benefit?

By joining the National Databank, your charity or community organisation can:

  • Distribute free SIM cards to support those facing digital exclusion.
  • Help individuals access essential online services, education, and employment opportunities.
  • Strengthen your community impact with a meaningful, practical solution to data poverty.
  • Learn new skills and ways of working.
  • Be part of a National movement focused on eradicating inequalities.
  • Break the silo walls and connect your voice to National discussions and development.
  • Future-proof your organisation with member-only events and knowledge base.
  • Access the National Device bank and diversify your funding opportunities.

Why Get Involved?

The National Databank is a simple, effective way to support your community and break down the barriers of digital exclusion.

At IFB Gaming, being part of this initiative has allowed us to connect countless individuals and organisations to life-changing opportunities. Now, we want to share this opportunity with you.

Get in Touch with IFB Gaming

Need guidance on how to join? Unsure where to start?

IFB Gaming offers consultations to help you understand the process and make the most of this incredible initiative. Together, we can ensure no one in our communities is left behind.

Let’s create a digitally inclusive future—one SIM card at a time. Reach out to us today to learn more about joining the National Databank!

This Christmas, as we embrace the joy of giving, let’s remember the power of connection. Together, we can continue to address digital exclusion and data poverty, ensuring a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Exploring Data Poverty and Its Impact

Data poverty refers to the lack of access to (adequate) data and digital literacy skills needed to fully participate in the digital world. It encompasses various dimensions of inequality and exclusion related to access to and use of digital technologies.

People experiencing data poverty may face barriers to accessing essential online services, educational resources, job opportunities, healthcare information, and social connections. Data poverty can exacerbate existing inequalities and limit individuals’ ability to fully benefit from digital technologies for personal, social, and economic development.

Data Poverty is a Facet of Digital Inclusion

Hannah Whelan (Good Things Foundation)

Data Poverty is often closely linked to broader issues of digital inclusion and the digital divide, highlighting the need for efforts to address disparities in access to digital resources and opportunities.

The impact of data poverty is profound and multifaceted, affecting individuals, communities, and societies in various ways:

  1. Limited Access to Information and Opportunities: Data poverty restricts access to vital information, resources, and opportunities available online. Individuals experiencing data poverty may struggle to access educational materials, job listings, healthcare services, and government resources, limiting their ability to make informed decisions and participate fully in economic, social, and civic life.
  2. Economic Disadvantage: Data poverty perpetuates economic disparities by hindering access to online job opportunities, e-commerce platforms, and digital financial services. Without access to digital tools and resources, individuals may face barriers to entrepreneurship, remote work, and financial inclusion, further widening the gap between the digitally empowered and the digitally excluded.
  3. Educational Inequality: Data poverty exacerbates educational inequalities by limiting access to online learning resources, virtual classrooms, and educational platforms. Students without reliable internet connectivity or digital devices may struggle to complete homework assignments, access course materials, or participate in distance learning programs, perpetuating the cycle of educational disadvantage.
  4. Healthcare Disparities: In the digital age, access to healthcare information, telemedicine services, and digital health tools is crucial for promoting health and well-being. Data poverty can exacerbate healthcare disparities by limiting access to online health resources, telehealth consultations, and digital health monitoring devices, particularly in underserved and remote communities.
  5. Social Isolation and Exclusion: Data poverty can contribute to social isolation and exclusion by limiting access to social networking platforms, virtual communities, and online communication tools. Individuals without internet connectivity or digital literacy skills may struggle to stay connected with family and friends, participate in social activities, or access support networks, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
  6. Digital Rights and Citizenship: Data poverty undermines digital rights and citizenship by limiting individuals’ ability to exercise their rights online, such as freedom of expression, access to information, and privacy protection. Without access to digital tools and resources, individuals may be disenfranchised from participating in digital democracy, engaging in online activism, or advocating for their rights in digital spaces.

Tackling data poverty is important for several reasons:

  1. Promoting Digital Inclusion: Access to digital connectivity, devices, literacy and skills are essential for full participation in the digital economy and society. By addressing data poverty, you can promote digital inclusion and ensure that everyone has equal opportunities to access and benefit from digital technologies.
  2. Reducing Inequality: Data poverty disproportionately affects marginalised and disadvantaged groups, exacerbating existing inequalities. By closing the gap in access to digital resources, we can reduce socio-economic disparities and promote greater equity in access to education, healthcare, employment, and other essential services.
  3. Fostering Economic Development: Access to digital technologies is increasingly important for economic participation and growth. By empowering individuals and communities with digital skills and resources, we can unlock new economic opportunities, stimulate innovation, and drive economic development.
  4. Improving Education and Lifelong Learning: Digital technologies have the potential to revolutionise education and lifelong learning by providing access to online resources, courses, and educational tools. Tackling data poverty ensures that learners of all ages have access to quality educational resources and opportunities for skill development.
  5. Enhancing Healthcare Access and Well-being: Digital technologies can improve access to healthcare information, telemedicine services, and health monitoring tools, particularly in remote and underserved areas. By addressing data poverty, you can enhance healthcare access and promote better health outcomes for individuals and communities.
  6. Facilitating Social Connections and Community Engagement: Digital connectivity enables individuals to connect with others, participate in social networks, and engage in community activities. By tackling data poverty, you can strengthen social connections, foster community engagement, and reduce social isolation, particularly among seniors and vulnerable and marginalised populations.
  7. Empowering Individuals and Communities: Access to digital technologies empowers individuals and communities to access information, express themselves, advocate for their rights, and participate in decision-making processes. By addressing data poverty, you can empower people to exercise their digital rights and participate more fully in democratic processes.

The impact of data poverty is far-reaching and intersects with various dimensions of inequality and exclusion. Addressing data poverty requires comprehensive strategies aimed at improving digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring equitable access to digital resources and opportunities for all individuals and communities.

By tackling data poverty, we can build a more inclusive and equitable digital society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Tackling data poverty is essential for building inclusive and equitable societies, promoting economic development, and harnessing the transformative potential of digital technologies for the benefit of all.

Our work is featured in Community Southwark’s case studies

IFB’s been shortlisted for a Business Excellence Award (2023) in London

Embracing Gamification for Digital Inclusion and Community Resilience

What is Gamification?

Gamification is the application of game elements and principles to non-game contexts, often with the goal of increasing engagement, motivation, and participation. It involves integrating features commonly found in games, such as points, badges, leaderboards, challenges, and rewards, into various activities and systems, like education, business, marketing, and more. You can learn more about the history and academic attempts to define gamification here.

The aim is to make these activities more enjoyable and to encourage desired behaviours, such as learning, productivity, or customer loyalty, by leveraging the psychological aspects of gaming, such as competition, achievement, and a sense of accomplishment. Gamification can be a powerful tool for enhancing user engagement and motivation in a wide range of applications.

One of the profound debates around gamification is its practicality for real-world community development. In our just completed Get Online Week‘s: Inspiring Minds! Empowering Futures!, we transformed a South London community into GTA. So, yes, gamification can be used effectively in real-world contexts and for community development. Here’s how:

  1. Community Engagement: Gamification can encourage community members to actively participate in events, initiatives, and projects. It can turn tasks like volunteering, attending meetings, or contributing to community clean-up efforts into engaging and competitive activities.
  2. Education and Skill Development: In community development, there is often a need for educational programs. During Get Online Week, we used a dedicated educational App called Learn My Way. Gamification can be used to create interactive and enjoyable learning experiences, promoting skill development and knowledge sharing within the community.
  3. Culture and Behaviour Change: Gamification can be applied to change or create cultures and encourage positive behaviours within a community, such as recycling, conserving energy, trying one thing online, or adopting healthy lifestyles. It can use rewards, challenges, and competitions to motivate individuals to make a positive impact.
  4. Community Building: Games and challenges can bring people together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. For example, a community scavenger hunt can encourage residents to explore their neighbourhoods and interact with each other.
  5. Data Collection: Gamified apps or platforms can be used to collect valuable data and feedback from community members. For instance, a mobile app could encourage residents to report issues like potholes or graffiti while earning points or rewards.
  6. Advocacy and Awareness: Gamification can be utilized to raise awareness and advocate for important community issues. Interactive campaigns can educate people about local problems and motivate them to take action.
  7. Community Improvement Projects: Community projects, such as park beautification or mural painting, can incorporate gamified elements to make the work more enjoyable and to track progress and achievements.
  8. Volunteer Management: Gamification can help manage and recognize volunteers. Volunteer leaders can use gamified systems to track contributions, offer rewards, and foster a sense of accomplishment.

By integrating gamification into community development, you can make the process more engaging, inclusive, and effective. It has the potential to inspire participation, boost motivation, and ultimately lead to more successful and sustainable community initiatives.

At IFB Gaming, we firmly advocate that gamification holds great potential for community development and we are delighted to spearhead its adoption in this growing field. Community development initiatives frequently necessitate educational programs, and during Get Online Week, we successfully harnessed the power of a dedicated educational app called Learn My Way.

Through gamification, we endeavour to craft engaging and enjoyable learning experiences that foster skill development and facilitate the sharing of knowledge within the community. This approach promises to enhance the educational and interactive aspects of community development efforts, making them more impactful and enjoyable for all involved.

Register for Get Online Week 2023’s Empowering Futures’

Get Online Week is back. It runs annually during Black History Month and it is currently on its 16th edition.

Why is Get Online Week important?

Nearly 1 in 5 adults lack the most basic digital skills needed for everyday life.

Over 1 in 20 households have no internet access, neither fixed line nor mobile.

2 million households struggle with affordability of internet access.

(AbilityNet)

What to expect this Get Online Week 2023

Free technology, computer and internet support for beginners.

Get support from IFB, BTB CIC and the NHS to access and understand essential digital services.

Whether you are a beginner, looking for educational resources or you are just struggling with a specific function, there will be a variety of departments based on our 6-Pillars of Digital Inclusion on the ground to support you.

You may also like to join us soon for more free events below:

Supporting Seniors to take back control of their healthcare by mastering the new NHS appointment booking process.

One of our primary objectives this year is to support Seniors and Elderly People with the new NHS appointment booking process, especially blood tests. If you know anyone that’s can benefit from this event, kindly bring them along or share with them. The NHS User Research team will be available during GOW to support them with any issues or problems that they may be experiencing.

Get Online Week 2023: Inspiring Minds. Empowering Futures.

A free 3-day free website development workshop at Rachel Leigh Hall. This event is free, however, registration is required. Please learn more with the link below.

The three days workshop will focus on:

  1. HTML – Hyper Text Markup Language
  2. CSS – Cascading Style Sheets
  3. Design thinking and ethics
  4. Drag ‘N’ Drop

Digital Living: Free bicycle marking by the Metropolitan Police.

Crime is on the rise again in London. This is true about mobile phones and bicycles on Southwark’s Brandon Estate. This Get Online Week, we are teaming up with the Police to mitigate these categories by offering bicycle tracking devices to individuals.

IFB Accessibility Services

Upcoming Events