More than £1.3 million has been awarded to 15 charities in Glasgow and the surrounding area through the Building Digital Skills Fund, a partnership between the HFD Charitable Foundation and Virgin Money Foundation.

Launched in spring 2024, the fund supports efforts to build digital skills and confidence, improve access to affordable data and broadband, and provide essential equipment such as mobile Wi-Fi devices.

In its latest round of funding, six charities and community groups working to reduce digital exclusion in the city are set to share £545,000. The organisations receiving support are Crossroads Youth and Community Association, Govan Youth Information Project, LinKes, Castlemilk Law & Money Advice Centre, Community Central Hall in Maryhill, and Crookston Community Group.

Each has been chosen for the vital role it plays in promoting digital inclusion within its community. Crossroads Youth and Community Association, for example, is a charity supporting residents in Govanhill and the Gorbals. 

During the Covid-19 pandemic, it led a local consortium to distribute over 700 devices and connectivity kits, while also developing a long-term digital inclusion strategy with SCVO (Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations) to tackle barriers around digital skills, confidence, and affordability.

Dani Waddell, charity manager at Crossroads Youth and Community Association said: “Receiving this support means we can continue to take a holistic approach to digital inclusion, tailored to the needs of our local community. We know digital exclusion is complex – simply providing data and devices isn’t enough to bridge the divide. 

That’s why we’ll be working with the Gorbals community to build confidence, skills, and capacity to use digital technologies in ways that enrich their lives. On behalf of Crossroads and the Gorbals community, we’d like to extend our thanks to the HFD Charitable Foundation and Virgin Money Foundation for supporting our digital journey.”

Glasgow experiences some of the highest levels of digital exclusion in the UK. A project by students from the University of Glasgow also found that nearly 50% of the city’s non-internet users come from the most deprived socio-economic groups.

The Building Digital Skills Fund was established to help bridge the divide by supporting access to equipment and essential digital skills – from applying for jobs and college courses to navigating the internet safely.

Lauren McKenzie, trustee of the HFD Charitable Foundation, said: “We’re proud to support organisations that are making such a difference in people’s lives across Glasgow. Digital inclusion is key to unlocking opportunities, improving access to services, and empowering people. 

These charities are leading the way, and their work is crucial in ensuring people have the technical tools and skills they need to thrive. It’s rewarding to see our funding continue to support these efforts and create a tangible impact on local communities.”

Nancy Doyle-Hall, executive director at the Virgin Money Foundation, added: “During the first year of the Building Digital Skills Fund, we are already hearing the difference it makes to people’s lives when they have access to the kit, connectivity and digital skills to navigate life online.  

From increased access to vital public services to a reduction in isolation, the related benefits of being more digitally included are tangible and significant. We are delighted to be able to support six more brilliant local charities through the latest round of the funding.