Power in partnerships: Libraries, charities, MPs, businesses

Earlier in April, I joined colleagues from Vodafone at Bury Library and their local MP, James Frith, to see firsthand how working partnership is making a real difference in getting more people online in the area.

Bury Library, which has been a community hub since way back in 1901, is a member of the National Digital Inclusion Network. Michael, who leads on digital inclusion, supports people to learn and get to grips with the digital world. 

Recognising the vital role that libraries play in the digital inclusion infrastructure, Good Things Foundation and Libraries Connected signed an agreement demonstrating our joint dedication to fixing the digital divide. With local MP James Frith, staff at Bury Library demonstrated how libraries are key safe community spaces for giving everyone access to info, online skills, and staying safe online.

A core component of digital inclusion at the library is the National Databank, like a food bank but for mobile connectivity - providing free SIM cards with data, texts, and calls to people who are struggling to afford connectivity. This is a game-changer for people looking for jobs, doing their banking, and just staying in touch with family and friends.

We heard from Michael at Bury Library about all the digital support they offer, like:

• Giving out free data through the National Databank.
• Digital Buddy sessions where volunteers and library staff help people with their phones, tablets, laptops – like Ruth, who comes in weekly for support to stay in touch with her son, read the papers online and learn new skills.
• Digital skills and internet safety courses with Bury Adult Learning.
• Free WiFi, public computers, and places to study.
• Loads of other support with things like careers, benefits advice, and even help for starting a business.

The National Databank is made possible thanks to Good Things Foundation and strategic partnerships, including with Vodafone. Vodafone’s everyone.connected campaign, which is aiming to help a massive four million people and businesses get online by the end of next year - with three million people already supported.

Visits to digital inclusion hubs like Bury Library bring to life the impact that digital inclusion is having on people's lives, giving them that essential connection to the digital world. Partnerships like ours with Vodafone and the dedication of places like Bury Library are absolutely vital in making sure no one gets left behind in our increasingly digital society.

The visit was a great reminder of how working together – charities, businesses, and local services like Bury Library – can really make a difference in tackling digital exclusion and helping everyone get connected.