hello@futuresadvice.org
Futures
57 Maid Marian Way
Nottingham
NG1 6GE
28th October, 2025
Reading time: Two minutes
Digital technology is a fundamental part of society – it plays a role in our personal and professional lives, it’s how we access essential services, and it’s how we stay connected. It is so deeply embedded into modern life that being able to access and effectively use technology can determine quality of life and the economic opportunities.
Millions of people across the UK are impacted by digital exclusion, with research from Good Things Foundation finding that around 1.6 million people are living offline, and around a quarter of the population struggles with the lowest level of digital capability, making it difficult for them to use online services confidently.
Key groups identified as being particularly at risk of digital exclusion include:
I’ve never had a computer and I always hated school, so I was dreading starting this course, but I’ve really enjoyed it. I’ve learned something every day. I definitely feel more connected.
This course has helped me with so many little things that have really added up and been a big help. Even learning how to copy and paste means now I don't have to ask people at work to help me with it.
Knowing just how detrimental the impacts of digital exclusion can be makes the benefits of digital inclusion shine so much brighter – especially when considering the potential economic impacts of a digitally inclusive population.
As presented in the governments Digital Inclusion Action Plan, for every £1 invested in digital training, there is an economic return of £9.48 through enhanced job opportunities, increased earning potential, and an uplift in productivity and efficiency. In fact, research from the Digital Poverty Alliance found that the UK could stand to see a £17 billion increase in yearly earnings, just from adults gaining essential digital skills.
Digital inclusion is about more than just access, it creates opportunities for everyone and supports them to feel confident and connected. By bridging the digital divide, this course helps individuals access essential services and participate fully in today’s digital world, helping them at work and at home. It's incredible to see people come in on day one feeling totally unable to do anything and watch them progress every day.
To ensure Nottingham City residents are equipped to receive help from these economic opportunities and avoid the risks of digital exclusion, we are proud to offer Basic Digital Skills training, completely free of charge to anyone who is aged 18 or above with a Nottingham City postcode.
This course is designed specifically to help local residents - especially beginners or those needing a refresh - build the vital foundational and essential life skills outlined in UK digital skills frameworks.
The training is delivered in a friendly, supportive classroom environment with small group sizes for personalised, hands-on learning, and is designed to tackle the critical barriers found in digital exclusion research by providing training in key areas:
Delivery of this vital training was made possible by funding from Nottingham City Council’s Essential Skills Grant and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. With it, we have been able to commit to supporting Nottingham residents to build their digital confidence, enhance their day-to-day lives, and access a wider range of employment and learning opportunities for free.
By offering free Basic Digital Skills training, we’re not just helping individuals gain confidence and independence, we’re strengthening our entire community and opening doors to new economic opportunities. Digital inclusion is essential for a fairer, more connected future, and we’re proud to support Nottingham residents on this journey.
To sign up, simply contact the Futures team:
hello@futuresadvice.org
Futures
57 Maid Marian Way
Nottingham
NG1 6GE