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Tag Digital inclusion

Digital Inclusion , London

Let It Snow SIMs: 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.

What is 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.”

Bridging the Gap: Free SIM Cards for Those Who Need Them Most
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.

Get In Touch
Digital Inclusion

Bridging the Digital Divide: Exploring Data Poverty and Its Impact

Data poverty refers to the lack of access to adequate data connectivity, digital devices, 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.

Get Online Week

Can Digital Unite Communities & Organisations Towards a Shared Vision? A Look at Get Online Week 2023

Let’s pretend for a second that this is not IFB Gaming. That our CEO, John Adewole, did not explore the efficacy and vitality of the gaming paradigm for project management and as a social accommodator for the insecurely attached through a longitudinal virtual ethnography. Let’s pretend that during his study, he did not capture the extent of modality switching from the gaming paradigm.

What happened during Get Online Week

IFB Gaming united charities and community organizations in Southwark for our 6th Get Online Week campaign in London. Get Online Week is championed by the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity, Good Things Foundation. The annual event sees the National Digital Inclusion Network get together to reinvigorate our pledges to eradicate digital inclusion and data poverty through collective action.

Now in its 16th year, the annual campaign has supported thousands of organisations to support millions of individuals at the risk of digital inclusion and data poverty.

2023’s Get Online Week unfolded on Kennington and Brandon Estates in the London Borough of Lambeth and Southwark, respectively. Community development initiatives frequently necessitate educational programs, and during Get Online Week, we employed a dedicated educational app called Learn My Way.

The organisations that supported GOW 2023 include The NHS, NHS Digital, Good Things Foundation, Future Dot Now, Vodafone’s Everyone.Connected, Metropolitan Police, and Virgin Media O2.

During the week;

  • We conducted focus groups with the Brandon Estates TRA committee and residents
  • We supported Seniors to master the new NHS appointment booking process via Swifqueue
  • We supported individuals through the National Databank
  • We supported individuals with basic digital skills using the EDS Framework
  • We empowered Women through Business Information Technology workshops
  • We explored new ways of doing research with NHS England in London communities
  • We conducted a Digital Skills and Needs Assessment with residents of Brandon Estate

So, can digital unite communities and organisations towards a share vision and goals? In our operational research experience, we certainly have the data and insights to say yes! Digital can sustainably unite individuals and communities from the gaming paradigm towards a shared vision and goals, however, we are yet to establish whether it can from real world context.

Unlike real world context where motive and motivation may differ significantly, the motive and motivation for presence in the gaming paradigm is playing and fun.

Ensure you are following our social media channels for more updates on the efficacy and vitality of digital to sustainably unite communities.

In the Press

– Thank You for Inspiring Minds and Empowering Futures during Get Online Week in Southwark – John Adewole PMP

– Get Online Week “Empowering Futures” – IssueWire

– Kennington estate to host computer skills workshops for local residents – Southwark News

– Success Story: Get Online Week with BREAKTHEBARRIER CIC – Community Southwark

– Get Online Week

Digital Inclusion

IFB Gaming Joins Future Dot Now Coalition

Our commitment is to elevate digital inclusion and eradicate data poverty. We recognise that this endeavour requires a collective effort beyond any single expert, organisation, government, or community. Hence, we are proud to announce that we are now an active member of the Future Dot Now coalition and will align our tangible and intangible resources and objectives with the alliance to eradicate digital inclusion and data poverty from the UK.

The pandemic has underscored the urgency of our mission, signalling that traditional methods may no longer suffice during technology adoption maturity and beyond.

Future Dot Now is a coalition of forward-thinking organisations dedicated to enhancing essential digital skills in the UK’s workforce. The coalition is spearheaded by Liz Williams MBE who is also the Founder and Chief Executive of Future Dot Now. There are currently 133 members in the coalition, including esteemed organisations such as Good Things Foundation, IBM, Microsoft, Lloyds Banking Group, DWP, Nationwide Building Society, and PwC.

We are honoured to be a part of this dynamic coalition.

EDS Framework by Future Dot Now
Essential Digital Skills Framework (Credit: Future Dot Now)

Fostering a digitally-enabled culture is pivotal to our nation’s success. As members of the Future Dot Now coalition, we aim to contribute valuable insights while benefiting from the expertise of other esteemed organisations within the coalition.

(Future Dot Now)

About IFB Gaming

IFB, an acronym for International Friends Bureau, is a hybrid bridge and connector research and learning organisation focused on the intersection of play, lifelong learning and digital exclusion.

What Membership in the Coalition Means to IFB Gaming

Given our unique positioning as a bridge research and learning organisation researching in English communities, affiliation with the coalition aligns with our mission in several ways:

  1. Support from Digital Inclusion Leaders: We anticipate garnering support from prominent individuals and organisations actively engaged in digital inclusion initiatives in England and Wales.
  2. Knowledge Exchange: Participating in the coalition allows us to share our insights and gain fresh perspectives and expertise specifically tailored to digital inclusion.
  3. Advocating Gamification: We intend to advocate for the benefits of gamification and emerging trends within the coalition.
  4. Awareness Initiatives: We aim to create awareness programs highlighting the myriad applications available to Third Sector organisations and community groups.
  5. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborative efforts within the coalition will contribute to strengthening the UK’s position through strategic partnerships within the Commonwealth.
  6. Promotion of Digital Skills Framework: We are committed to promoting the Essential Digital Skills Framework within BAME communities, starting from the grassroots level.
  7. Community Engagement: We will facilitate volunteering opportunities within the community and offer free or affordable workplace digital training and products to coalition members.

The Essential Digital Skills (EDS) Framework, outlined above, delineates five key skills and provides examples of tasks that individuals should master to demonstrate competence in each skill. Notably, the fifth skill—being safe, legal, and confident online—is interwoven across the other four.

The pandemic has accentuated existing gaps and exposed new challenges. It is evident that while there are numerous efforts underway in UK communities aimed at fostering a prosperous, connected, equitable, and sustainable digital economy, much of this work operates in isolation, often lacking proper documentation and alignment with systemic structures.

We firmly believe that a robust, comprehensive, and cyclical strategy is now imperative, one that is firmly grounded in strategic partnerships and driven from the grassroots and the policy (bottom-up-top-down), with a focus on empowering individuals and communities.

According to the City of London News Room, the UK is leading the digital revolution, with technology, media, and creative businesses outpacing the broader economy in terms of growth. Nevertheless, the rapid pace of change is leaving a significant portion of our population behind:

  • 53% of UK employees lack the essential digital skills necessary for the workplace.
  • 4.1 million adults in the UK remain ‘offline,’ with 75% indicating no motivation to change.
  • 11.3 million UK adults still lack the fundamental skills needed to access the internet, communicate effectively, and solve problems online.

The Future Dot Now coalition has made the following commitments, and we encourage other organisations to join us in this endeavour. Only through collective action can we develop fluid, interconnected, and sustainable solutions that are equal to the tasks and challenges that lie ahead.

Unveiling Insights: Southwark Digital Skills and Needs Assessment Survey 2023

Event Title: Southwark’s Digital Landscape and the Hidden Opportunities

 

Date: TBC

Time: 1-3pm

Location: Microsoft Teams

During the online event, we will unveil the findings of the recent consultation with the residents of Kennington and Brandon Estates.

The event is for Third Sector leaders working to tackle digital inclusion and data poverty in the UK.

 

BACKGROUND

In 2023, the Southwark Digital Skills and Needs Assessment Survey provided invaluable data and insights into the digital landscape of the community.

This event serves as a platform to share the key findings, challenges, and opportunities revealed by the survey.

We aim to foster a deeper understanding of the digital skills and needs within Southwark’s Brandon and Kennington Estates and chart a course for a digitally inclusive future in Southwark.

 

 

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

During the online event,

  • we will unveil the findings of The Digital Skills and Needs Assessment Survey
  • make practical recommendations that you can start implementing immediately

 

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

Please register your interest with the link. (What is this?)

The link will take you to a form. Once you have filled out and submitted the form, you will receive an email with the full details of the event. You will also be able to continue to pay and complete your registration or cancel.

 

Please contact john.a@ifbgaming.com if you would like to have a chat.

Thank you!

Register For Get Online Week 2024 in Southwark

Do you need help with technology? Then Get Online Week is for you. Find an Online Centre near you and get the help you need.

10.2 million people in the UK lack the basic digital skills needed to use the internet (1), with millions still living without access to a device or data to get connected. Unable to connect with loved ones, job and training opportunities and everyday services moving online, people are experiencing digital exclusion and are being left behind. This has caused a digital divide between those connected and those disconnected.

Get Online Week is an annual campaign run by leading digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation, which powers the National Device Bank, National Databank, Learn My Way and the National Digital Inclusion Network.

For one week in October, our network of community partners host hundreds of free digital skills events to help people get online safely, confidently and affordably.

Now in its 17th year, Get Online Week has helped hundreds of thousands of people to get online for the first time and improve their digital skills.

This year Get Online Week is happening 14th-20th of October.

Join Empowering Futures to register an event in Southwark or Find an event near you

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