At People Know How we’re working to end data poverty in Scotland. Through a collaboration with Good Things Foundation, we conducted new research and co-wrote a guide that provides practical tips for organisations in providing support with connectivity.
People Know How has identified data poverty as the biggest obstacle to digital inclusion, with long-term solutions needed to combat its effects. Ofcom data from 2022 shows that 2 million UK households struggle to afford basic broadband, a figure likely to increase as the cost of living crisis deepens.
This is why we launched our Connectivity Now campaign to end data poverty in 2021, work that has led us to many exciting conversations and collaborations with organisations and changemakers across the UK.
In our most recent collaboration, we’ve been working with Good Things Foundation to conduct new research and put together a guide that provides practical tips and advice for organisations supporting people with connectivity.
Speaking to organisations and individuals
When we surveyed people we support who are experiencing data poverty, and organisations supporting people with digital inclusion we were met with unexpected results. The outcomes of our research underlined the relative lack of knowledge and awareness about data connectivity and available support.
We’ve compiled the results of this research into a Connect Four Journal article which you can read in our database.
In response to this feedback, we became even more passionate about equipping people with the tools to provide connectivity support through this new guide.
A guide to providing support
Produced by People Know How and Good Things Foundation, ‘Supporting people with data connectivity (Broadband and mobile data)’ is a short guide providing practical advice on how to support people with connectivity.
From understanding data usage and speeds to using public WiFi safely, the guide provides information to help people identify the best solutions for them. It also touches on existing programmes and initiatives available to organisations doing this work, including social tariffs, the National Databank and free broadband through Jobcentre Plus.
“It's been wonderful to work with Emma Stone from Good Things Foundation in creating this guide. Our research demonstrated the need for accessible information around connectivity and available support and we've created a guide that aims to provide that."
Packed with advice and printable helpsheets to use in your organisation, readers are encouraged to get in touch with feedback and even reproduce sections of the guide on their own websites, to continue sharing the information far and wide.
We’ve been delighted to also collaborate with Nominet, Citizens Advice Scotland, Digital Communities Wales and the APLE Collective in producing the guide, with a Welsh translation also available.