Bridging the digital divide with free broadband – Opus helps communities in Blackpool and the North West

That is why they have a commitment to bridging the digital divide across towns and cities in the North West.

The Digital Social Initiative sees Opus Broadband donate 20% of its network coverage to schools, charities, religious organisations, housing associates, and local authorities.

This means as many people and groups as possible are connected to the web.

“In our opinion, not enough is being done to reduce the UK's digital divide. That's why we started the Internet for Everyone Campaign. Cost and long-term contracts should never be a barrier to being able to get online at home or anywhere else,” said Ian Clough, Digital Social Initiative coordinator.

The divide

The digital divide in the UK persists, affecting various demographic groups and regions. Mr Clough added: “Addressing this divide is crucial for ensuring equitable access to education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion, and for building a more digitally inclusive society.”

– In 2022, around 11% of households in the UK did not have internet access at home, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

– Elderly populations are more likely to be digitally excluded. In 2022, 44% of those aged 75 and over had never used the internet.

– Rural areas often face limited broadband access. As of 2021, only 62% of rural premises had access to superfast broadband, compared to 96% in urban areas.

What Opus is doing

At the centre of Opus Broadband’s operations is understanding what is needed to bridge the digital divide in the area.

This proactive approach involves early engagement with key stakeholders, including local councils, housing associations, schools, strategy committees and community groups.

By forming partnerships and raising awareness about their services Opus Broadband creates the opportunity to roll out internet access as widely as possible.

Free broadband

Ian Clough is in no doubt that having access to broadband is vital: “The free internet we supply to organisations can significantly improve the educational, economic, and life outcomes of those they work with and/or care for.”

And that is backed up by partners of Opus Broadband:

“Lack of affordable broadband is one of the main factors that leads to digital exclusion amongst older people,” says an Age UK Blackburn with Darwen spokesperson. “Working with 6Gi means we can help older people get connected free of charge. This allows them to experience the many benefits of digital technology, such as keeping in touch with friends and family, shopping online and using health services online.”

“The free Wi-Fi connection at The Foxton Centre, Preston, means that the homeless community and other vulnerable groups can access essential services on the internet,” said centre manager Lara Budd. “The level of service we received from 6Gi at the centre was excellent, and installation was very straightforward.”

“This is a great initiative to help people currently living in the pods,” said Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council. “It will allow those living in the shelters to get online and access the relevant documents, learn new skills, and send emails to help them on their way to improving their lives.”

“Ian arranged for a number of families with no broadband to get connected for free, enabling the children to access our remote learning offer, provided through Google Classroom, which included a full day of live lessons and homework. Without this connection, these children would have missed out on this with the resulting impact on their education,” Julian Rogers, Headteacher, St. Matthew's Church of England Primary School.

Get connected

To find out more and take advantage of Opus Broadband’s expertise go to www.opusbroadband.com