City unveils ambitious plan to bridge digital divide

A North East local authority is stepping up efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure residents can fully participate in an increasingly online world.

Sunderland City Council has unveiled an ambitious strategy to help every resident thrive digitally by 2035, targeting inequalities linked to income, disability and education.

The plan builds on recent progress, with more than 10,000 people supported online since 2023 through initiatives such as 37 community digital health hubs and expanded full-fibre coverage reaching 82 per cent of households.

Over the past three years, digital exclusion in the city has fallen from one in three people to one in four.

Officials say the new approach will focus on improving access to affordable connectivity, devices and skills, while ensuring services are inclusive and easy to use.

Baroness Armstrong of Hill Top, chair of the Government’s Digital Inclusion Action Committee, whose home city is Sunderland, said: “Sunderland has shown what is possible when inclusion is placed at the centre of digital transformation. 

“It is leading the way in demonstrating how technology can serve people and communities – not the other way around.

“There is, of course, more to do. 

“Ensuring everyone can afford connectivity, access devices and build the confidence to use digital tools will remain at the heart of this mission. 

“But the foundations laid here are strong, and the ambition of this city is unmistakable.”

Councillor Alison Smith, portfolio holder for smart cities at Sunderland City Council, added: “Digital inclusion is about more than providing devices or internet access – it’s about building people’s confidence and skills to use technology safely and effectively.

“Our commitment is clear: we want everyone to be able to take part and thrive in an increasingly digital world. 

“And by working with partners across the city to deliver this strategy, we want to ensure no-one and nowhere gets left behind.”

Liz St Louis, Sunderland City Council’s director of smart cities and enabling services, added: “Digital inclusion is the key that unlocks many opportunities. 

“It enables students to learn, supports people’s health conditions, helps households manage their finances, and opens the door to job opportunities. 

“This strategy is a vital part of our plans to reduce inequality and build trust across the city.”

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