Rather than replacing existing programmes or networks, it acts as a:
Real-time insight layer across council-led digital inclusion ecosystems
What This Means in Practice
For London councils and their partners, the toolkit enables:
1. Live Insight Across Networks
Understand what is happening across multiple organisations during delivery—not just after.
2. Stronger Coordination
Bridge the gap between:
Council strategy
Community delivery
3. Support for Frontline Delivery
Equip:
Volunteers
Students
Digital Champions
With simple tools that help them adapt in real time.
4. Consistent, Usable Data
Move towards:
Shared understanding across partners
Comparable insights across programmes
Designed to Strengthen, Not Replace
The toolkit is intentionally designed to complement existing infrastructure, including:
Good Things Foundation networks
Digital Unite models
Local borough partnerships and VCS ecosystems
It does not introduce another layer of reporting.
Instead, it provides: Practical insight during delivery Value for those doing the work Better visibility for those coordinating it
From Reporting to Real-Time Understanding
As councils continue to adopt network-based delivery models, the next step is clear:
Move from retrospective reporting To real-time, evidence-led action
This shift enables:
Faster response to challenges
Improved outcomes for residents
Greater confidence in programme effectiveness
Current Phase and Opportunities
The toolkit is currently in beta, with early engagement from community organisations and sector partners.
We are now exploring opportunities to work with:
London borough councils
Network coordinators
Voluntary and community sector partners
To pilot and refine its application across real-world delivery environments.
Work With IFB Gaming
If you are part of a council, delivery network, or community organisation interested in strengthening digital inclusion through real-time insight, we would welcome a conversation.
Digital inclusion is no longer just about access.
It is about understanding what works—while it is happening—and improving it in the moment.
That is the shift this toolkit is designed to support.
IFB Digital Inclusion Toolkit Featured on Community Southwark | Real-Time Impact Measurement
We are pleased to share that the IFB Digital Inclusion Toolkit has been featured on the Community Southwark website—marking an important step in making the toolkit accessible to Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) organisations across the borough.
This recognition reflects a growing need within the sector: Not just to deliver digital inclusion initiatives, but to understand and improve their impact in real time.
Why This Matters
Across the UK, many organisations are doing vital digital inclusion work. However, they are often supported by tools that:
measure outcomes retrospectively
prioritise reporting over delivery
overlook the needs of those on the front line
The IFB toolkit takes a different approach.
It is designed to:
support live measurement during delivery
provide immediate, practical insight
empower students, volunteers, and community practitioners as active users—not just organisations
By focusing on those delivering the work, the toolkit strengthens the Digital Champion model that underpins much of national digital inclusion delivery.
From Access to Insight
This feature on the Community Southwark platform signals more than visibility, it represents alignment with a shared ambition:
👉 To move from simply delivering support 👉 To understanding what works, as it happens
For local organisations, this means:
stronger evidence for funding
improved service delivery
greater confidence in decision-making
What Happens Next
The toolkit is currently in beta, with ongoing feedback and registrations from users and partners helping to shape its development.
We will continue to:
refine usability and clarity
build real-world case studies
ensure the tool delivers value to those who use it daily
narrow services and opportuinities to location
Explore the Toolkit
You can view the IFB Digital Inclusion Toolkit via Community Southwark here.
Work With Us
If you are a local authority, funder, or organisation interested in advancing digital inclusion through real-time insight and ethical measurement, we would welcome a conversation.
IFB Gaming remains committed to building practical, community-led solutions that not only expand access—but strengthen understanding, participation, and impact.
Across the world, gaming is often viewed primarily as entertainment — a pastime enjoyed by millions of players across consoles, personal computers, and mobile devices. Yet gaming is much more than a form of leisure.
At its core, gaming is a powerful system for learning, participation, and problem-solving.
The same principles that make games engaging — curiosity, challenge, progress, responsive feedback, and collaboration — can also be applied to help communities build confidence, develop digital skills, and participate more fully in an increasingly digital society.
At IFB Gaming, we believe that gaming principles can play an important role in shaping the future of digital inclusion and community empowerment.
Let’s break it down.
The Participation Challenge
Digital inclusion has traditionally focused on three key challenges:
• access to devices and connectivity • digital skills and literacy • confidence using online services
Over the past decade, governments, charities, and community organisations have worked tirelessly to address these barriers. Their efforts have helped millions of people gain access to the internet and develop the skills needed to navigate the digital world.
However, access and skills alone do not guarantee participation.
Many people still feel uncertain, intimidated, or disconnected from digital systems. For some, technology can feel like an unfamiliar environment — one that is difficult to navigate without guidance.
This is where gaming offers an important insight.
Games succeed because they encourage participation rather than demand expertise.
Players are invited to explore, experiment, and progress step by step.
Failure is part of the process, and progress is celebrated.
Learning Through Play
One of the most powerful aspects of gaming is its ability to support learning through play.
Games are designed to introduce new challenges gradually. Players start with simple tasks, build confidence through practice, and unlock more complex challenges as their skills develop.
This structure mirrors effective learning environments.
In digital skills programmes, for example, participants may need to learn how to:
create an email account
engage through chat
navigate online services
recognise online risks
access digital health services
apply for jobs online
When these activities are presented as technical tasks, they can feel intimidating. But when they are structured as missions, levels, or achievements, they become more engaging and motivating.
Gamification — the use of game mechanics in non-game contexts — can therefore transform digital learning into a progressive and confidence-building journey.
Gaming as a Gateway to Digital Confidence
For many people, gaming represents their first interaction with digital environments.
Even simple games introduce players to key digital concepts:
navigating virtual spaces
solving problems
collaborating with others
managing digital systems
These experiences can build confidence that extends far beyond gaming itself.
Young people who play games often develop skills in strategic thinking, communication, and problem-solving. Older adults who explore digital games may gain confidence using devices and navigating digital interfaces.
Gaming can therefore act as a gateway into broader digital participation.
Community Engagement Through Gamification
Beyond individual learning, gaming principles can also strengthen community engagement.
Community programmes often struggle with participation. Workshops, meetings, or training sessions may be valuable but difficult to sustain without ongoing motivation.
Gamification can help address this challenge by introducing elements such as:
challenges and missions
progress tracking
collaborative achievements
recognition and rewards
These elements encourage participants to remain engaged while celebrating progress and shared achievements.
For example, digital skills programmes can introduce learning pathways where participants unlock new levels as they complete training modules. Community challenges can encourage residents to contribute to local initiatives, share knowledge, or participate in digital learning events.
By transforming participation into a shared journey, gamification can help strengthen community bonds and collective motivation.
Gaming in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
As emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence become embedded in everyday digital systems, the need for inclusive approaches to digital learning will only increase.
AI-powered services are already influencing areas such as:
healthcare
education
employment
financial services
information access
Understanding these technologies requires more than basic digital skills. Individuals must develop confidence navigating complex digital environments and questioning automated outputs.
Gaming and gamification can play an important role in supporting this transition.
By creating safe, interactive environments where people can explore technology without fear of failure, gaming can help communities build the confidence needed to engage with emerging technologies.
From Entertainment to Empowerment
Gaming is often misunderstood as a purely recreational activity.
Yet when we examine the underlying mechanics of games — exploration, feedback, collaboration, and progression — we see a powerful framework for human engagement and learning.
When these principles are applied thoughtfully, gaming can support:
digital inclusion
community learning
civic participation
technology confidence
social connection
In this sense, gaming is not simply about entertainment.
It is about empowerment through participation.
The Role of IFB Gaming
At IFB Gaming, our work explores how gaming principles and emerging technologies can support communities in navigating the digital world.
Through initiatives focused on digital inclusion, community learning, and responsible technology engagement, we aim to demonstrate how gaming can become a tool for education, participation, and social impact.
Our work recognises that digital inclusion is not only about providing access to technology.
It is about helping individuals and communities develop the confidence, curiosity, and capability to shape their own digital futures.
Looking Ahead
As society continues to evolve in response to rapid technological change, new approaches to learning and engagement will become increasingly important.
Gaming — with its emphasis on participation, experimentation, and progress — offers a powerful model for how communities can learn and grow together.
By embracing the principles of play, collaboration, and discovery, we can create more inclusive pathways into the digital world.
Because when people feel confident to explore, learn, and participate, they do more than access technology.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming part of everyday digital life.
From search engines and customer service chatbots to healthcare systems, online learning platforms, and workplace tools, AI is quietly shaping how information is delivered and how decisions are made.
For many people, this shift is exciting. AI promises greater efficiency, smarter tools, and new ways of solving complex problems.
But for communities already facing digital barriers, the rise of AI raises an important question:
What happens when digital inclusion moves into the age of artificial intelligence?
Digital Inclusion Has Entered a New Phase
For many years, digital inclusion efforts focused on three core challenges:
• access to devices and connectivity • basic digital skills • confidence using online services
Organisations across the UK and around the world have made enormous progress in helping individuals access the internet and develop the skills needed to participate in a digital society.
However, as AI systems become embedded in digital services, the nature of digital inclusion is beginning to change.
Digital participation will increasingly require people to understand how automated systems generate information, make recommendations, and sometimes make decisions.
This represents a new stage in the digital inclusion journey.
When Digital Services Become AI-Driven
Artificial intelligence is already influencing many services people rely on every day.
Examples include:
automated customer service systems
job recruitment screening tools
recommendation engines on digital platforms
AI-powered educational tools
decision-support systems in healthcare and finance
While these systems can improve efficiency and accessibility, they also introduce new challenges.
Users may not always understand:
where the information is coming from
how decisions are being made
whether an AI-generated answer is reliable
how their personal data is being used
Without the right support, individuals who have recently become digitally included may find themselves facing a new layer of complexity.
The Role of Community Organisations
Community organisations have long played an essential role in supporting digital inclusion.
Libraries, charities, community centres, and local support networks often act as trusted intermediaries between digital systems and the people who use them.
As AI becomes more widespread, these organisations may become equally important in helping communities understand and navigate intelligent technologies.
This could involve helping individuals:
understand what AI tools are and how they work
recognise AI-generated content
verify information produced by automated systems
protect personal data when using AI-powered services
explore how AI might support learning, employment, or creativity
In this sense, community organisations may increasingly act as AI translators — helping people interact confidently with emerging technologies.
AI Literacy as a Community Skill
Just as digital literacy became a key skill over the past decade, AI literacy may soon become equally important.
AI literacy does not require everyone to become a programmer or data scientist.
Instead, it focuses on helping people understand:
what AI can and cannot do
how AI systems learn from data
where bias or errors might occur
how to question and verify automated outputs
This knowledge helps individuals remain informed and confident users of digital systems.
Creating Safe Spaces to Explore AI
One of the most effective ways to support communities in understanding new technologies is through safe, supportive environments where people can explore and ask questions.
Community workshops, digital hubs, and learning programmes can provide opportunities for people to experiment with AI tools while receiving guidance from trusted facilitators.
These environments can help individuals:
explore AI-powered tools without pressure
understand both the opportunities and risks of AI
develop confidence interacting with intelligent systems
see how AI might support everyday tasks
The goal is not simply to promote AI adoption, but to ensure that people can engage with technology critically, safely, and confidently.
Looking Ahead
Artificial intelligence will likely continue to transform many aspects of digital life in the years ahead.
As this transformation unfolds, digital inclusion efforts must evolve alongside it.
Ensuring that communities can understand and navigate AI-powered systems will be essential to maintaining equitable access to digital services and opportunities.
At IFB Gaming, we are interested in exploring how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence intersect with community learning, digital inclusion, and the broader digital society.
The future of digital inclusion may not only be about getting people online.
It may also be about helping people understand the intelligent systems that increasingly shape the online world.
A 50-Minute Loaded Remote Executive Lecture on Teams
Artificial intelligence is transforming every aspect of society—from public services and education to employment, healthcare, and everyday life. Yet as AI accelerates, the divide between those who can participate and those who cannot is widening at an alarming rate.
This workshop, delivered by digital inclusion strategist John Adewole, provides leaders, organisations, and practitioners with a clear, compelling understanding of why digital inclusion is now a critical requirement in an AI-enabled world.
About the Workshop
In just 50 minutes, this session offers an evidence-based, insight-driven exploration of how AI is reshaping digital access needs and deepening existing inequalities. Drawing on real community experience and cross-sector practice, highlighting the practical steps every organisation can take to ensure people are not left behind.
The workshop is ideal for:
Local authorities and government teams
Corporates and digital transformation leaders
Housing associations
Funders and grant-makers
Charities and community organisations
Education, skills, and employability providers
What You Will Learn
Participants will gain actionable insights into:
How AI adoption is accelerating digital inequality
Which groups are being disproportionately affected
The essential digital skills required in an AI-driven society
Practical, scalable strategies for supporting digitally excluded people
Immediate actions your organisation can implement
Why This Matters Now
AI is no longer “emerging”—it is actively shaping the services people rely upon. Without targeted interventions, millions risk being locked out of education, employment, public services, and opportunities for social and economic mobility.
Digital inclusion is not a technical issue; it is a social, economic, and ethical imperative.
About the Facilitator
John Adewole is a recognised leader in digital inclusion, sustainable technology use, and community empowerment. Through IFB Gaming’s Empowering Futures programme, he works directly with underserved groups to improve digital access, skills, and participation. His practical experience, combined with policy-level insight, ensures a workshop that is both grounded and forward-looking.
Book This Workshop
Equip your organisation with the insight, tools, and confidence to navigate the AI era responsibly and inclusively.
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.
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
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 a 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 firsthand 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 a 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, and 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.
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.
So what happened during Get Online Week?
IFB Gaming united charities and community organisations 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 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.
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 shared 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 have yet to establish whether it can from a real-world context.
Unlike real-world contexts where motive and motivation may differ significantly, the motive and motivation for presence in the gaming paradigm are 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.
Gamification is the application of game design elements and principles in non-game environments in order to increase engagement, motivation, and participation.
It involves incorporating features commonly found in games — such as points, levels, badges, leaderboards, challenges, missions, and rewards — into activities like education, community development, training programmes, and digital learning.
The goal is simple: make participation more engaging and rewarding.
By tapping into the psychological drivers that make games compelling — including achievement, curiosity, competition, and progress — gamification can encourage people to stay motivated and continue learning or contributing over time.
Today, gamification is used in many sectors, including:
education and training
health and wellbeing programmes
employee engagement initiatives
marketing and customer experience
community participation programmes
When applied thoughtfully, gamification can transform activities that might otherwise feel difficult, technical, or intimidating into experiences that are accessible, enjoyable, and motivating.
Gamification and Community Development
One of the most important discussions around gamification is whether it can be applied meaningfully in real-world community development.
At IFB Gaming, our experience suggests that the answer is yes.
During Get Online Week: Inspiring Minds! Empowering Futures, we experimented with gamification approaches to encourage participation and digital learning within a South London community.
By framing participation as a series of challenges and missions, we transformed the learning environment into something more dynamic and engaging — almost like navigating a digital adventure similar to experiences found in open-world games such as Grand Theft Auto.
The objective was not to turn community work into entertainment, but rather to use familiar game mechanics to reduce barriers to participation.
How Gamification Can Strengthen Communities
Gamification can support community initiatives in several important ways.
Community Engagement
Gamification can encourage community members to actively participate in events, initiatives, and projects.
Tasks such as attending workshops, volunteering, contributing to local initiatives, or participating in digital training programmes can be framed as missions or achievements, making participation more interactive and rewarding.
Education and Digital Skill Development
Many community development programmes involve teaching new skills.
However, learning digital skills can feel intimidating for beginners, particularly for people who may have had limited exposure to technology.
Gamification helps address this challenge by turning learning into a progressive journey.
During Get Online Week, we used the educational platform Learn My Way, which provides structured digital learning pathways. By introducing elements of challenge, progress, and achievement, participants were able to move through learning modules with greater confidence and motivation.
Culture and Behaviour Change
Gamification can also support positive behaviour change within communities.
Challenges and reward systems can encourage activities such as:
recycling and environmental responsibility
energy conservation
trying digital services for the first time
adopting healthier lifestyles
By celebrating progress and recognising participation, gamification can reinforce positive habits and community engagement.
Community Building and Social Connection
Games naturally bring people together.
Gamified activities such as community challenges, neighbourhood competitions, or digital scavenger hunts can create opportunities for residents to interact with one another and develop a stronger sense of belonging.
In many communities, especially those experiencing social or digital isolation, this type of interaction can be extremely valuable.
Data Collection and Community Insight
Gamified platforms can also provide useful insights for community organisers.
For example, mobile apps or digital platforms could encourage residents to report local issues — such as potholes, graffiti, or maintenance concerns — while earning points or recognition for contributing to community improvement.
This approach allows communities to gather valuable information while encouraging civic participation.
Volunteer Motivation and Recognition
Volunteers are often the backbone of community programmes.
Gamification can help recognise and motivate volunteers by tracking contributions, celebrating milestones, and highlighting the impact of their efforts.
Leaderboards, recognition systems, or digital achievement badges can help volunteers feel valued while encouraging sustained engagement.
Gamification and Digital Inclusion
Gamification also has significant potential within digital inclusion initiatives.
Learning digital skills can be overwhelming for beginners. Tasks such as setting up an email account, navigating online services, or understanding online safety may appear simple to experienced users but can feel daunting for someone starting from scratch.
By introducing game elements such as levels, progress indicators, and achievement milestones, digital learning programmes can become more supportive and less intimidating.
Participants can progress step-by-step, gaining confidence as they unlock new skills and knowledge.
In this way, gamification helps transform digital learning from a purely technical process into a motivating and empowering experience.
Looking Ahead
As communities continue to navigate a rapidly evolving digital world, innovative approaches to engagement and learning will become increasingly important.
Gamification offers a promising pathway for making community initiatives more interactive, inclusive, and impactful.
At IFB Gaming, we believe that the principles of gaming — curiosity, challenge, collaboration, and progress — can play a powerful role in strengthening communities and supporting digital inclusion.
By thoughtfully integrating gamification into community programmes, organisations can inspire participation, build confidence, and help communities thrive in an increasingly digital society.
Our Commitment
At IFB Gaming, we continue to explore how gaming principles, emerging technologies, and community engagement strategies can work together to create more inclusive digital futures.
Through initiatives like Get Online Week, we are experimenting with practical approaches that help communities learn, participate, and grow together.
Because when learning feels like progress — and progress feels like a game — communities become stronger, more confident, and more connected.
Our commitment is to elevate digital inclusion and eradicate digital 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 FutureDotNow 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. There are currently 133 members in the coalition, including esteemed organisations such as Good Things Foundation, PwC, and Lloyds Banking Group.
We are honoured to be a part of this dynamic coalition.
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.
Our Empowering Futures initiative is an impact-driven initiative designed to tackle digital exclusion, data poverty, and accessibility challenges faced by underserved communities. The programme provides free SIM cards, digital skills training, and connectivity solutions to low-income individuals, refugees, and those without recourse to public funds.
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:
Support from Digital Inclusion Leaders: We anticipate garnering support from prominent individuals and organisations actively engaged in digital inclusion initiatives in England and Wales.
Knowledge Exchange: Participating in the coalition allows us to share our insights and gain fresh perspectives and expertise specifically tailored to digital inclusion.
Advocating Gamification: We intend to advocate for the benefits of gamification and emerging trends within the coalition.
Awareness Initiatives: We aim to create awareness programs highlighting the myriad applications available to Third Sector organisations and community groups.
Strategic Partnerships: Collaborative efforts within the coalition will contribute to strengthening the UK’s position through strategic partnerships within the Commonwealth.
Promotion of Digital Skills Framework: We are committed to promoting the Essential Digital Skills Framework within BAME communities, starting from the grassroots level.
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.
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