When a survey by Halton Housing Trust found that 1,200 of
its residents had no internet access, it decided to remedy the situation.
Partnering with phone company O2, the trust launched a two-year project called
Open Digital to provide 400 residents with tablet computers and broadband. As part of the project, Halton provided
relevant apps and technical support, enabling residents to make claims and
carry out job searches from their own home. Halton has seen other benefits
emerge from digital inclusion: previously isolated residents are using Skype
and social media to stay in touch with family, while the ability to access
information and services online has resulted in a drop in the number of phone
call enquiries. Read more on the Guardian website.
