Cwmpas awarded contract from Welsh Government to deliver the new Digital Inclusion Wales programme

Cwmpas, in partnership with Good Things Foundation, have been awarded the contract by the Welsh Government to deliver the exciting new national Digital Inclusion Wales programme, commencing October 2025. 

Building on the successful delivery of the Welsh Government’s previous digital inclusion programme, Cwmpas will help to drive forward the next era of digital inclusion in Wales, delivering a nationally coordinated, bilingual programme of activity. This will include developing a national digital inclusion advice and support service and mapping digital inclusion provision across Wales to strengthen collaboration and ensure no one is left behind. 

Digital inclusion is recognised as a key priority across Wales, underpinning the Welsh Government’s ambitions outlined in both the Digital Strategy for Wales and the Well-being of Future Generations Act. It is also closely aligned with the Minimum Digital Living Standard (MDLS), an ambition which the Welsh Government is actively working to support – to enable people to meet the MDLS, if they choose. Cwmpas is committed to making sure no one is left behind when it comes to digital technology, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, background, or personal circumstances, can access and benefit from digital technology. 

The new programme will target three key areas:  

• A national advice service working to regional and thematic strategies will support public, private and third sector organisations to embed digital inclusion into their operations.  

• An extensive mapping exercise will be undertaken, identifying the support, interventions, and funding available for digital inclusion both within Wales and across the UK, particularly those resources that benefit Welsh communities. 

• The formation of a collaborative partnership, bringing together public, private and third sector organisations who are actively involved in shaping digital inclusion policy. This alliance will work together to share expertise, showcase best practice, and develop innovative approaches to overcoming barriers to meeting Minimum Digital Living Standards (MDLS). 

Bethan Webber, Chief Executive of Cwmpas said: 

“We’re really pleased and proud that Cwmpas, together with our partners Good Things Foundation, has been awarded the contract by the Welsh Government to lead the new Digital Inclusion Wales programme. 

Enabling digital access is essential in supporting people’s wellbeing and enhancing opportunities in today’s world. Through the new digital inclusion programme, we will build upon the achievements of the recently concluded Digital Communities Wales programme, working to ensure that everyone in Wales has the opportunity to benefit from the digital world. 

After more than a decade of dedicated work in this area, we are eager to collaborate across sectors to empower individuals and communities, increase digital confidence, and create a meaningful, lasting impact for the future of Wales|.” 

The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, said:  

“Wales has led the way on digital inclusion for over a decade, and this new Digital Inclusion Wales programme will build on that strong foundation.  

Our ambition for the Minimum Digital Living Standard (MDLS) recognises that digital inclusion is more than personal use of the internet. People need the right devices, connectivity, and basic skills to take part fully in modern life. Digital exclusion is often linked to wider inequalities, and we are committed to ensuring everyone can benefit from digital technology if they choose to.  

I’m pleased to be awarding this contract to Cwmpas and Good Things Foundation, whose expertise and track record will be invaluable in delivering this vital programme for communities across Wales.”