News
26th July 2024
There are a growing number of tangible benefits and improvements brought about by Sunderland’s smart city infrastructure and Digital Inclusion Programme.
Sunderland has rapidly emerged as a community of smart leaders motivated to digitally equip residents.
Utilising a variety of forward-thinking and inclusive smart initiatives, Sunderland is connecting communities across its smart city – discover in this blog exactly how.
In the first five months since its launch, Sunderland’s Digital Inclusion Programme made a significant impact by supporting approx. 200,000 residents. This initiative is a testament to the power of social partnerships, co-production and innovative models designed to meet the needs of residents across communities.
At its core, the Programme aims to ensure that even the most disconnected residents can access opportunities in their own neighbourhoods.
Sunderland City Council, is spearheading a Digital Inclusion Programme to bridge the digital divide
Recent research revealed that one in three Sunderland residents have never been online or lack basic digital literacy skills. The partnership is committed to changing this by making digital inclusion a reality through advanced technology and innovative public services.
An ambitious commitment to provide full-fibre connectivity to 95% of the city by the end of 2025 is already showing results. From April 2023 to April 2024, the percentage of properties with full-fibre connectivity more than doubled from 26.4% to 53.4%.
With significant investments in 5G, free public Wi-Fi expansion, and Digital Hubs, a unique partnership between Sunderland City Council and Boldyn Networks is revolutionising Sunderland’s digital landscape to foster inclusivity and empower residents.
The Digital Inclusion Network consists of over 320 members who are working together to promote digital inclusion, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of activities across communities.
If you are interested in learning about improving digital inclusion in the city, it is free to join the Sunderland Digital Inclusion Network. To join, you’re your email address to smartcity@sunderland.gov.uk
Go Online Sunderland is a comprehensive toolkit that is supporting thousands of residents and organisations by boosting digital literacy and accessibility to devices.
Intelligence dashboards continue to be developed to provide information to develop targeted activities and support, ensuring future initiatives are tailored to suit specific community needs.
The dashboards will provide real-time insights and historical data, enabling the council and other organisations to make informed decisions to enhance city operations, services and quality of life for residents.
These data-driven insights will also support both existing and new businesses who are taking roots in our smart city with intelligence to underpin decisions and driving resource efficiencies.
Sunderland’s superfast public Wi-Fi is bringing free connectivity across the city centre, coast and numerous playparks to connect people on the move across the city.
With 96 community events promoting digital skills and opportunities attended by over 1,900 people, awareness of and participation in digital activities is increasing.
Digital Touchdown Zones and Tech Mate volunteers have digitally enabled almost 900 employees to increase their productivity and build digital competence across their council roles.
22 Digital Hubs have been established around the city to tackle digital exclusion and health inequalities.
Believed to be the first of their kind in the UK, six Esports Community Hubs are now equipped with Esports gear to open up opportunities in esports and gaming.
The Tech Mates programme consists of 75 volunteers who provide personalised support to help residents go online.
Sunderland’s Discounted Broadband campaign has reached 30,795 residents and 146 voluntary groups, whilst supporting the affordability of digital services. All eligible residents will be contacted over the coming months to ensure as many people as possible can benefit from discounted broadband.
Donation hubs across the city are encouraging households to donate unwanted digital devices to be redistributed within the community.
Efforts to digitally transform Sunderland are supported by over £660,000 in external funding, with additional match funding to drive sustainability and expand digital initiatives.
Sunderland’s Digital Inclusion Programme is a testament to its commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive community, bridging the digital divide for a smarter, more connected and inclusive future. This digitally connected future is one in which no one and nowhere is left behind.
Sunderland’s transformation into a smart city is not just about technology; it’s about people. Sunderland City Council and partners are dedicated to ensuring that everyone in their community can thrive in this digital age.
Together, they are building a brighter, more connected future for Sunderland.
Stay up-to-date with all the latest smart city news, achievements and opportunities by clicking here to sign up to receive Sunderland’s smart city newsletter.