Join our local authority network

The Network is made up of local authorities (LAs) from each of the four nations of the UK, with the purpose of sharing best practice, sharing the understanding of different policy environments across different regions and nations in the UK, and identifying how to increase support to local authorities no matters where they are on the digital inclusion journey.

The Network is free to join, and forms a key part of our Mission 6 – increasing local capacity to provide joined-up digital inclusion support in communities.  Local authorities have such a huge role to play in tackling digital poverty, but we also know that whilst many LAs are helping local residents through so much work, others are at an earlier stage and need support to build teams, initiatives or even find a home for this within their organisational structure.  As well as sharing best practice, tools and opportunities, the network will do much to help the DPA’s own understanding of how to foster greater focus on digital inclusion for elected members, as well as supporting officers.  Meetings are held quarterly, and members are also invited to other DPA network events.

Membership of the Local Authority Network is open to every local authority in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, including:

• County, District, Borough, Community and City Councils;
• London and Metropolitan Boroughs;
• Unitary Authorities and Combined Authorities;
• Assemblies.

Each authority can select up to two participants, who may be officers or elected representatives.  Their remit must normally cover digital inclusion or a related area – except where no such post exists within an authority, in which case the authority can choose the most appropriate representative(s). 

LOCAL AUTHORITY WORKING GROUP MISSION 

To convene a broad range of local authorities committed to eradicating digital poverty in their respective authorities, as well as nationwide.   

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO  

The working group will be made up of local authorities from each of the four nations, and will be managed by the Digital Poverty Alliance. The main priorities of the working group will be: 

1. Sharing best practices, inspiring others to take action to end digital poverty. 
2. Understanding the different policy environments for each of the four nations. 
3. Support for mission 6 of the national delivery plan. 
4. Identify what support local authorities need from the digital inclusion sector. 
5. Explore how to generate political knowledge of the issues faced by each of the local authorities.  

ROLE OF LOCAL AUTHORITY WORKING GROUP MEMBERS  

• To be an active member of the local authority working group, and to share challenges faced by your area in tackling digital exclusion. 
• To represent the interests, needs and priorities for your respective local authority.  
• To encourage all your colleagues and members to actively collaborate, share what works and what doesn’t. 
• Where viable and relevant, offer resources including data, insight, or other resources to the local authority working group. 
• To share DPA resources and support with your community. 

TIMELINE AND REPORTING  

The aim will be for the local authority working group to meet 4 times per year.