The UK Government’s £9.5M Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund supports councils, charities, and community groups to tackle digital exclusion. Grants fund projects like tech skills workshops, device donation schemes, and innovative local solutions. By improving access to devices, digital skills, and online services, the fund helps communities save money, boost employability, and reduce inequality while promoting scalable, evidence-based initiatives for lasting social impact.

The Shared Rural Network (SRN) has hit its UK-wide 4G target early. Now, it’s tackling ‘total not-spots’—areas with zero mobile coverage—focusing on rural and remote parts of the UK. The next phase targets key walking routes, tourism hubs, and isolated communities using shared, low-impact masts. Councils, landowners, and digital leaders should engage now to shape rollout plans, improve emergency and economic connectivity, and future-proof local infrastructure.