FVAF DIGI Hubs Project is supporting us.
We are incredibly proud to announce our new partnership with the DIGI Partnership (Digital Inclusion Gloucestershire initative) as an affiliate partner.
United by shared values and principles, this collaboration—alongside ongoing support and engagement with Gloucestershire’s Digi Hubs project—marks an important step forward in our commitment to social responsibility.
Through this partnership, we aim to help close the digital divide and ensure that everyone in our community can access the opportunities of the online world. Together, we will work to create inclusive solutions that empower individuals and strengthen community connections.
About Gloucestershire’s Digi Hubs Project
The Digital Hubs Project is an innovative, community-based initiative developed by Forest Voluntary Action Forum (FVAF) and the GCC Adult Transformation Team in 2022 with Gloucester Community Building Collective acting as Gloucester’s lead partner.
Its core mission is to actively combat digital exclusion across Gloucestershire by making digital support free, accessible, and tailored to individual needs.
The project operates through a network of safe and trusted Community Drop-in Hubs. For example, locations in Coleford, Sedbury, and Cinderford provide accessible spaces. Within these hubs, individuals receive FREE 1:1 digital support from digital champions..
You can find the nearest Gloucestershire Digi Hub via this online map:
The Digi Hubs address four primary barriers to digital inclusion:
- Motivation: Showing the relevance and benefits of using the internet for daily life.
- Confidence: Building trust and alleviating fears about online crime and security.
- Skills: Delivering personalized, one-to-one training to master essential online services.
- Access: Providing free equipment and internet connectivity for those who need it.
Our Shared Vision: Bridging the Digital Divide
Our partnership is founded on a shared belief: that digital literacy is no longer a luxury – it is a fundamental right for everyone. Guided by the principles of collaboration and equity, our partnership works collectively to ensure that no one is left behind.
We recognize that barriers to digital access can isolate individuals, limit opportunities, and restrict access to essential services. By embracing action learning and leveraging the unique strengths of each partner, we provide tailored, community-led support that meets people where they are.
Together, we aim to build trusted relationships and, in addition, empower communities, ultimately creating inclusive pathways so that everyone can confidently participate in the digital world.
Partnership in Action: How We Will Benefit
FVAF DIGI Hubs Project commitment to us will involve targeted support to ensure our continued growth and effectiveness.
| Category | Our Contribution | Example Tasks |
| Resource & Access | Providing resources to sustain and expand our operations. | Sponsor a Hub: Funding the internet and equipment costs for a local Community Drop-in Hub for one year. |
| Volunteer Mobilization | Encouraging our team to lend their professional skills and time as Digital Champions. | Staff Volunteer Program: Dedicating employee time to provide 1:1 digital support for tasks like setting up email, job searching, or navigating online government services. |
| Joint Awareness | Utilizing our communication channels to promote the project and its importance. | Public Campaign: Launching a joint campaign to raise awareness about digital exclusion and the location and benefits of the local hubs. |
| Skills Training | Offering specialized workshops to empower our digital champions and volunteers. | Expert Training: Hosting training sessions on advanced topics, such as online safety best practices or troubleshooting specific device issues. |
Get Involved
We invite our staff, clients, and community members to support this vital work:
- Find a Hub: If you or someone you know needs digital support, visit our interactive map to find a local Digi Hub for free, tailored assistance:
👉 https://glosdigi.org.uk/digi-hubs-map - Volunteer: Apply to become a Digital Champion and experience the rewarding impact of helping someone gain confidence online.
📧 Contact GL Communities: 01452 505544 - Learn More: Discover more about the Digi Hubs Project and the wider Digital Inclusion Gloucestershire initiative:
👉 https://glosdigi.org.uk
For details on hub dates, times, and locations, please reach to directly to hello@glosdigi.org.uk