Happy 5th birthday Digital Inclusion Alliance Wales: the driving force behind digital inclusion

Digital Inclusion Alliance Wales (DIAW)’s story is one of collaboration, co-ordination and a commitment to bridging the digital divide.

Cwmpas has been delivering Welsh Government’s digital inclusion programmes for 20 years. In 2019, as part of the Digital Communities Wales: Digital Confidence, Health and Well-being programme, the idea grew to develop an alliance offering a shared ‘digital inclusion’ space, and to raise the profile of digital inclusion as an important part of strategy and policy creation in Wales.

DIAW started in January 2020 with 22 passionate individuals and a shared vision: to explore how they could foster digital inclusion across the country.

During COVID-19 more people than ever needed access to the internet and digital tools to work, learn, and stay connected with their communities. In response, DIAW became a place for collaboration, working to avoid duplication and wasted resources, and to connect people with the resources they needed.

By March 2021, DIAW was ready to publish its first Agenda for Digital Inclusion, setting out key priorities and outcomes which serves as an action plan for the work to tackle digital exclusion.

As DIAW grew, so too did the need for a more structured approach with the introduction of a Steering Group and Network.

In 2023, DIAW published the second edition of its agenda, reflecting the progress that had been made over the previous two years. The updated document outlined revised goals and actions, based on the ever-changing needs of the digital landscape. In 2024, a progress report was published.

One of the most significant indicators of DIAW’s success has been the increase in its membership. From just 22 organisations, it has grown to a community of over 120 members, united by a shared belief in the importance of equal access to digital tools and resources.

The membership encompasses a wide variety of organisations, of all sizes, from across all sectors and areas in Wales. Every organisation with an interest in digital inclusion is welcome. If you want to be involved, you can sign up here.

Since October, the Alliance’s work has been charted by a series of ‘Exploring Impact’ reports, which provide valuable insights into the state of digital inclusion across Wales, and serve as a tool for advocacy, raising awareness of the challenges and opportunities in digital inclusion.

Over the past five years, the devolved nations of Scotland and Northern Ireland, and local authorities in England, have all consulted DIAW on how to create their own digital inclusion alliances. DIAW was also asked to present evidence at the House of Lords Communications and Digital Committee during their inquiry into digital inclusion.

As we look ahead, the need for continued support for digital inclusion remains as strong as ever. The challenges of the pandemic have not disappeared. Instead, they have evolved.

The rising cost of living, changes in the workforce, and the ongoing digital transformation of services require a concerted effort to ensure that nobody is left behind and that the efficiencies expected from digital transformation are realised.

In its Digital Strategy for Wales, the Welsh Government emphasised that digital inclusion is everybody’s business and that it must remain a priority. The Digital and Data Strategy for Health and Care in Wales has a focus on digital inclusion throughout.

But digital inclusion is not just a policy issue – it’s a human issue. It’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to engage with the digital world. Whether it’s accessing essential services, participating in education, or connecting with loved ones, digital inclusion touches every aspect of our lives.

It is also an economic issue. The digital transformation of services is rapidly expanding but with 22% of Wales’ adult population lacking essential digital skills, increasing to 59% for people over 75, the expected productivity gains will not be realised without digital inclusion efforts.

A 2022 report from Good Things Foundation and partners sets out the costs and benefits to investing in digital inclusion.  The research found that investment of £1.4 billion could reap economic benefits of £13.7 billion for UK plc. This is £9.48 return for every £1 invested.

DIAW plays a critical role in this effort, providing a space for collaboration, learning, and action.

The Alliance continues to advocate for policies that prioritise digital inclusion, and calls on individuals, organisations, and government bodies to support this crucial mission. As one of the key voices in digital inclusion in Wales, DIAW provides a platform for those who are sometimes overlooked and amplifies their voices in important conversations.

The future of digital inclusion is bright, but it requires continued support, collaboration, and commitment from all sectors of society.

Digital inclusion is not just a nice-to-have. It’s an essential part of building an equitable and thriving society. As we move into 2025 and beyond, DIAW will continue to be a driving force in ensuring that everyone in Wales has the digital tools and skills they need to participate fully in our increasingly digital world.

Let’s keep digital inclusion at the top of the agenda and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age.

From Our Members

One of the core reasons for DIAW’s success is its connection to its members. The members are the driving force behind its work, offering insights, expertise, and a shared commitment to digital inclusion. By listening to and working alongside its members, DIAW ensures that its actions reflect the needs of the communities they serve. Member feedback consistently highlights the importance of the space DIAW provides – a space for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and collective action. This collaborative environment has been essential in driving growth and impact over the past five years.

“The Hywel Dda University Health Board is fully committed to enhancing digital inclusion across our region, recognising the profound impact it has on health and well-being. Digital Inclusion Alliance Wales has been instrumental in driving this agenda forward, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their digital literacy or access to technology, can benefit from digital health services. The work of DIAW is vital to the health and well-being of our population. The Hywel Dda University Health Board is proud to support and collaborate with Digital Inclusion Alliance Wales to ensure that everyone can benefit from the opportunities that digital health services provide.” – Anthony Tracey, Hywel Dda UHB

“It’s a real privilege to be part of the Digital Inclusion Alliance and a member of the Steering Group. Our ambition at DVLA is to help grow the digital eco system across the region and beyond and this aligns perfectly with the priorities of the Alliance. It’s been really beneficial and inspiring to see firsthand what others are doing and play a part in driving the inclusion agenda for Wales. There have been countless success stories since we joined and it’s encouraging to see the impact that connecting likeminded organisations into a coalition of the willing can have.” – Simon Cromwell, DVLA

“Being part of DIAW over the past five years has been incredibly beneficial for our organisation. The Alliance has not only connected us with various sectors and professionals that are spearheading efforts to tackle digital inclusion but also facilitated invaluable knowledge sharing around digital inclusion initiatives across Wales.” – Ashley Bale, Innovate Trust

“DIAW shows the power and value of bringing people together from different types of organisations around a shared agenda. I believe the Alliance has been instrumental in raising digital inclusion higher on the agenda for Welsh Government, and for others across Wales, and taking forward the Minimum Digital Living Standard for Wales.” – Emma Stone, Good Things Foundation