Digital inclusivity and support at Housing 21

Digital inclusion is about making sure everyone can benefit from the internet and modern technology. At Housing 21, we’re committed to helping residents feel confident, connected and supported in the digital world.

We know that being online can make a real difference to everyday life, but we also recognise that not everyone feels confident using digital tools, and may find it difficult to getting online properly.

That’s why digital inclusion is important to us, so we can help remove those barriers, improve digital confidence and skills, and make technology more accessible for everyone who wants to use it.

On this page, you’ll find helpful resources, guidance and support designed to help you get online, stay connected, and build your digital confidence at your own pace.

Help getting online

Getting online doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. We’re here to help you find simple, affordable ways to access the internet, whether you’re just getting started or looking to improve your current connection.

You may be eligible for a low-cost broadband deal through a social tariff, designed to help you stay connected at a more affordable price.

Social tariffs offer the same reliable broadband service, but at a reduced cost. Many plans have lower monthly bill, some starting from around £10, and often come without long contracts or exit fees, giving you more flexibility.

These tariffs are available from a range of major providers, making it easier to find an option that suits your needs and budget.

Learn more about the best value broadband and social tariffs from Starting Point's guide.

Many Housing 21 schemes offer communal WiFi, giving residents a simple way to get online in shared spaces.

We’re also working with broadband providers to bring faster fibre connections directly into residents’ homes. Fibre broadband is already available in over 146 schemes, and we’ll continue to expand this where it’s safe and practical to do so.

Across the UK, fibre broadband is becoming more widely available, and we’ll keep you updated through your local scheme as it is introduced in your area.

Some residents may prefer to have their own personal WiFi in their home. If you choose this option, you can often save money by using comparison websites to find the best broadband deals available in your area.

You can utilise comparison sites to save money, why not try:

Swap my broadband

U switch

Free data SIM cards are available on request, providing access to mobile data for six months or more. This can be a helpful way to get online if you don’t currently have broadband at home.

For more information or to request a SIM card, please get in touch.

Support to improve your digital skills

There is a wide range of support available to help you build your digital skills and confidence, whatever your starting point. This includes guidance, learning resources and friendly support to help you get online, use digital devices, and make the most of technology in everyday life. Whether you want to learn the basics, feel more confident using the internet, or find help with specific digital tasks, there are organisations and resources available to support you at your own pace. We’ve highlighted a selection of trusted organisations and useful resources that can help you take the next step in your digital journey.

Age UK

Age UK are helping more older people make the most of the digital world through programmes that increase skills and confidence.

AbilityNet

AbilityNet is a UK charity that helps older and disabled people use technology to improve their everyday lives.

Digital Wings

Barclays Digital Wings helps people feel more confident and secure when managing their money online. It offers free digital learning resources to support skills in money management, investing, and staying safe online. These resources are designed to help you make informed decisions and build confidence in using digital banking and financial services safely.

BT Senior Skills

BT provides online support and guidance for older and digitally excluded people to help them feel more confident in a digital world. Their resources are designed to make technology easier to understand and use, supporting you to stay connected, explore the internet safely, and make the most of online services in everyday life.

Residents and a Care Worker using a mobile phone

Local digital inclusion hubs

Digital inclusion support doesn’t have to be accessed online. The Good Things Foundation provides a helpful map that shows local Digital Inclusion Hubs where you can find support in person.

Visit the Good Things Foundation to find support or local hubs

Charter for Digital Inclusion

Housing 21 is proud to be a signatory of the Charter for Digital Inclusion, created by the Digital Poverty Alliance. The Charter recognises the ongoing challenge of ensuring fair and equal access to digital tools, skills and literacy for everyone.

By signing the Charter, Housing 21 joins a wider commitment to work collaboratively with other organisations to break down barriers to digital inclusion. This includes sharing knowledge, resources and expertise to help more people get online and stay connected.

Together, this supports our shared goal of creating a fairer, more digitally inclusive society.

Find out more about the Charter of Digital Inclusion and the Digital Poverty Alliance Find out more about Digital Inclusion at Housing 21 from our Digital Inclusion Lead, Jess Ettridge,