Making a Difference
to people's lives

Digital Inclusion

A lack of digital skills and access can have a huge negative impact on a person's life

Get connected graphicIt can lead to:

  • Poor health
  • A lower life expectancy
  • Increased loneliness and social isolation
  • Less access to jobs and education
  • Paying more for bills and essential items

At Wrekin there are a number of different ways we can help customers experiencing digital exclusion.

Device Scheme

We have a supply of refurbished smart phones and tablets that can be gifted to customers who need them. To access the help available please speak to your Housing Officer or call them on 01952 217100

Free Data

We have signed up to The National Databank to provide free access to the internet to those who are unable to get online. We now have SIM cards available to our customers who meet the following criteria:

  • 18+ years old
  • From a low-income household and qualify in at least one of the following statements:
  • Has no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
  • Has no or insufficient access to the internet when away from the home
  • Cannot afford their existing monthly contract or top up

To access the help available please speak to your Housing Officer or call them on 01952 217100

Digital Skills

We work with a number of community organsioations and local authorities to stay up to date with all of the digital support availabile across out operational areas. We also work in partnership to provide Digital Support at our local schemes and hubs. Please check out the calendar to see what’s on or speak to your Housing Officer to find out more about where you can access digital help in your area.

Linda and Melissa - digital skills workshop at WithywoodMeet Linda

"I worry about being targeted online. I also worry that someone might need to speak to me but they can’t get hold of me on the telephone."

Linda, 84, is a ShireLiving tenant who came to one of our Digital Skills drop-ins for advice on how to stay safe online. She chatted with volunteer Melissa about messaging, staying safe, and a few other useful hints and tips.

"I feel much more confident after today, I’ve got a much better idea on how to do things, dealing with problems. It’s been very helpful. My family is very good and if I have a problem they will come and solve it for me but it’s not the same as doing it yourself. I do like to be independent."