New coalition of regional Government bodies and Good Things Foundation launch digital inclusion push

A powerful new coalition of regional government bodies and the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity, Good Things Foundation, has been formally announced today, marking a critical, collaborative step toward permanently closing the UK’s digital divide.

The strategic wave of new Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) involves Greater London Authority, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Tees Valley Combined Authority, West of England Combined Authority, West Midlands Combined Authority and West Yorkshire Combined Authority. 

This collective action signifies a united movement, accelerating efforts to embed digital inclusion into the fabric of public services and drive systems change at an unprecedented scale.

The MOUs formalise a shared commitment to ensure that internet access and essential digital skills are treated as vital for regional renewal and economic growth, ensuring the millions facing digital exclusion have the opportunity to benefit from the digital and AI age. Key features include:

• A regional coalition for digital inclusion: This united front of influential regional bodies demonstrates a collective resolve to make digital inclusion a non-negotiable part of the UK’s future, leveraging national infrastructure like the National Device Bank and local community networks for regional impact.
• Driving systems change from the regions: The multiple agreements showcase the power of regional leadership in making digital inclusion "baked in, not bolted on." This broad coalition creates the evidence and political momentum needed to influence national policy and ensure essential access to digital services for everyone.
• An unmissable advocacy moment: The shared commitment from this growing list of influential regional bodies creates a significant advocacy moment to put the lived experience of millions facing digital exclusion at the forefront of the national agenda.

This new coalition builds on a strong foundation of collaboration established through successful regional partnerships. This includes work between Good Things Foundation and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, who are supported in delivering their regional strategy, and ongoing positive engagement with the North East Combined Authority.

Emma Stone, Director of Evidence and Engagement at Good Things Foundation, said:

“This collective announcement is an unmissable moment. It’s a powerful statement that tackling digital exclusion requires a united coalition driven by these Combined Authorities’ leadership. By embedding our national infrastructure and local networks within their regional strategies, we are accelerating the fundamental systems change needed to make digital inclusion a reality for all."

Theo Blackwell, Chief Digital Officer at the GLA said:

"This partnership strengthens City Hall’s commitment to a just capital. It builds directly on the success of efforts like the Get Online London programme, providing the strategic framework to ensure digital inclusion is a non-negotiable part of service delivery across London. Together our work will bridge the digital divide and improve connectivity in these key areas helping to build a better, fairer and more prosperous cities for everyone."  

Cllr Liam Robinson, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Cabinet Member for Innovation, said: 

“As a city region, we are committed to ensuring our residents have access to the skills and support needed to fully participate in an ever-changing digital world. This partnership with Good Things Foundation is helping us to deliver on our ambition to make Liverpool City Region one of the most digitally connected and inclusive regions in the country.”

Ben Houchen,  Mayor of Tees Valley said:

“We’re already home to pioneering digital and tech firms pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and we’re positioning our region at the forefront of the UK’s AI growth. But if we’re serious about cementing our place at the front of the queue, we must bring everyone with us. Digital access and basic digital skills are essential to finding a job, starting a business and staying connected. We want people across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool confident online and ready to harness the power of new technology and tap into our growth. From Loftus and Easington in the east, to Heighington and Piercebridge in the west, we must make sure all our local people have the tools, connections and skills they need to benefit.”

Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said:

“The digital divide still needs bridging, and that goal is set out in both our Growth Strategy and Child Poverty Action Plan. Digital connectivity and skills can help change lives for the better: closing attainment gaps at school, connecting families to services and jobs, and building stronger communities. Our regional partnership with Good Things Foundation and six other Mayors is a positive step that can help ensure nobody is left behind by technology.”

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: 

“I’m determined that everyone in the region, no matter their background, has the support and confidence to use digital technology. Having these modern skills is crucial for people, not just in their everyday lives but also in the world of work. Our West Midlands Digital Roadmap, coupled with the WM AIM (Artificial Intelligence Missions), will help improve digital skills across all our communities, so people can access services more easily and unlock a world of opportunities. By working with Good Things Foundation we are tearing down the digital divide and unlocking our region’s untapped growth and potential.”