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Digital Inclusion: connecting West Yorkshire communities

In today’s digital world, having essential skills is vital. Yet, millions are still excluded. Across West Yorkshire, a strong partnership of local authorities and community organisations is changing this. They provide practical, people-first support that helps residents build confidence, access essential services and unlock new opportunities in daily life.

Bridging the digital divide across West Yorkshire

Digital access is crucial for everyday life. Still, 16% of the UK population lacks basic digital skills, leaving millions at risk of exclusion.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Digital Inclusion initiative tackles this challenge. It supports individuals, communities and organisations to build the skills, confidence and access they need in everyday life.

Working with local authorities in Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield, along with delivery partners like Virgin Media O2 Business’ Connect More programme, support reaches communities through a people-first, collaborative approach.

Watch the video case study to see the impact across West Yorkshire.

What's the impact?

More residents are gaining essential digital skills to access healthcare, services, jobs and everyday tools.

Improved confidence from personalised, one-to-one support tailored to individual needs.

Better access to healthcare, helping patients manage services online.

Stronger local organisations with guidance, training and resources.

Greater collaboration across the region to tackle digital exclusion at scale.

Delivering support where it’s needed most

Local authority digital inclusion teams and trained volunteers work together to provide digital support in communities.

In Bradford, drop-in sessions at Valley View Surgery help patients confidently access NHS services online, improving their independence and wellbeing.

With digital inclusion efforts across West Yorkshire, we continue to reach more communities each month.

Building a more inclusive region

At its heart, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Digital Inclusion support is about more than essential digital skills. It’s about confidence, opportunity and inclusion.

By bringing together local authorities, community organisations and delivery partners, the programme creates a more connected region where everyone can thrive in a digital world.