The Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) has published its 2023-2024 Impact Report, marking a pivotal year in its mission to end digital poverty across the UK. The report highlights key milestones achieved through advocacy, research, and delivery programmes, while setting a clear direction for a digitally inclusive future.
Since its founding in 2001 as the e-Learning Foundation, the DPA has evolved to tackle the growing challenges of digital exclusion. In 2024, the organisation rebranded to underscore the urgency of addressing digital poverty, combining practical delivery programmes with research and advocacy to drive systemic change. Over the past year, the DPA has supported individuals and families with vital digital access and has helped shape policies for long-term solutions.
The 2023-2024 Impact Report showcases several key milestones. Two million individual customer donations through Currys and Pennies provided vital funding to expand the Tech4Families programme to seven locations across the UK. These contributions, alongside partnerships and collaborations, enabled the delivery of essential digital tools and skills through five programmes, connecting 5,000 homes to online access in just two years. Local refurbishment pilots collected 400 devices, repurposing them to support community needs. Meanwhile, the DPA raised public awareness of digital poverty, achieving over 150 media mentions, including coverage by BBC, ITV, and The Guardian.
Advocacy: A Focus on Systemic Solutions
The DPA has driven significant progress through advocacy. The government appointed a Minister with formal oversight of digital inclusion, and a new Digital Inclusion Strategy, set for release in 2025, is underway. Both align with the DPA’s core recommendations ahead of the election. By engaging local authorities, businesses, and policymakers, the DPA has strengthened the national focus on addressing digital poverty.
Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the Digital Poverty Alliance, said:
“This year’s report is a reflection of what we can achieve when we work together. From shaping policy at the highest level to delivering practical solutions to those most in need, the progress we have made shows that real change is possible. However, digital poverty remains a significant barrier for millions across the UK. By continuing to collaborate with government, businesses, and communities, we can ensure that everyone has the tools and skills they need to thrive in a digital world.”
Insights from Research
The DPA’s research continues to inform targeted interventions and drive meaningful action. An independent evaluation of the Tech4Families programme demonstrated how access to laptops significantly improves educational outcomes, underscoring the vital role of digital tools in achieving academic success. The DPA also launched its report, Rethinking Education with Generative AI, at Parliament, examining how generative AI could widen or close the digital divide. The report provided actionable strategies to harness AI effectively while minimising risks, ensuring its benefits reach everyone.
Delivering Impact Across Communities
The DPA’s delivery programmes continue to make a meaningful difference in communities across the UK:
Tech4YoungCarers: This programme is supporting young carers in Cambridgeshire by providing devices, connectivity, and digital skills training. Many young carers have already benefitted, equipping them to balance their educational pursuits with caregiving responsibilities. Efforts are ongoing to extend this support to even more young carers.
Donate Your Device: Pilots in Ealing and Kensington & Chelsea are transforming access to technology through local refurbishment efforts. By repurposing donated devices, this programme is addressing digital exclusion for underserved communities and laying the groundwork for broader community-driven initiatives.
Tech4Youth: Active in Leicestershire and Solway, this programme is equipping young people with the digital tools and skills they need to succeed in education and prepare for future employment opportunities. Expansion plans are underway to extend its reach to more regions across the UK.
Looking Ahead: The Path to 2030
The DPA’s National Delivery Plan remains at the heart of its mission to eliminate digital poverty by 2030. Phase One, concluding in 2025, focuses on raising awareness, improving affordability, and expanding access to connectivity and digital skills. These efforts lay the foundation for long-term, systemic change.