Six Years of Building Digital Confidence Together 

As the Digital Communities Wales: Digital Confidence, Health and Well-being programme comes to an end this September, we at Cwmpas want to pause and reflect on the journey and say a huge thank you to everyone who has been part of it. 

Since 2019, DCW has worked with thousands of people and organisations across Wales to make sure no one is left behind in our digital world. From individuals taking their first steps online to whole services embedding inclusion into how they work, the programme has shown what can be achieved when communities, organisations and volunteers come together with a shared purpose. 

People first, not just technology 

Digital inclusion has always been about more than devices or apps, it’s about people. Over the past six years, we’ve seen how learning basic digital skills, such as making a GP appointment online, applying for a job, or joining a video call with family, can make a real difference to wellbeing and confidence. 

Our work has supported older people, carers, disabled people, families on low incomes, people seeking asylum and many others. What’s mattered most is making support practical, friendly and rooted in community life. 

Making a difference across Wales 

Through DCW, we’ve seen inspiring change at every level: 

• Community spaces becoming digital hubs, where people gained new skills in safe and welcoming settings. 

• Device loan schemes that sparked ongoing investment in digital access. 

• Young people stepping up as Digital Heroes, supporting their local communities to get online. 

• Creative initiatives like reminiscence bikes, which brought joy and connection to people living in care settings. 

• Health and care services putting digital inclusion at the heart of everyday support, helping more people manage their wellbeing online. 

Just as important has been the partnerships we’ve built along the way. From convening the Digital Inclusion Alliance Wales at a national level, to supporting local “Get Online” partnerships within local authorities and communities, collaboration has been central to tackling digital exclusion. These networks have created spaces to share learning, align action, and make sure digital inclusion remains a priority across Wales. 

Since July 2019, DCW has… 

engaged with 2,194 organisations  

supported 10,774 front-line staff to become digitally confident 

supported 4,119 volunteers to become digitally confident 

supported 256,109 people with the motivation and skills to use the internet effectively  

supported 18,170 people with digital device loans 

gathered 3,486 responses to digital skills audits  

Looking ahead 

Although the programme is ending, its impact will continue. The networks built, the resources created, and the confidence developed will keep supporting people and organisations across Wales. 

We’re incredibly proud of everything that’s been achieved and grateful to every volunteer, staff member, community partner, and to Welsh Government for its ongoing commitment to tackling digital exclusion. Diolch o galon for working with us to build a more digitally confident and connected Wales. 

The digital world is always changing, and the need for support and inclusion will continue. Welsh Government are currently finalising the procurement process for the new Digital Inclusion Wales programme, which will begin on 1 October and carry this vital work forward.