Digital Communities Wales: Digital Confidence, Health, and Well-being (final evaluation)

Main findings

Programme rationale

• DCW has significantly influenced digital inclusion policy in Wales.
• The programme contributed to reducing digital exclusion, though external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic also played a role.
• There is a need for continued investment in digital inclusion initiatives.

Programme progress

• DCW has become more strategic and collaborative over time.
• Support for Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities has been effective.
• The DCW brand is highly respected and should be retained.

Programme performance

• DCW has performed well against its Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Challenges remain in recruiting and training volunteers.
• Performance with private sector engagement has been unsatisfactory.

Outcomes

Impact on organisations

• Increased awareness and engagement with digital inclusion among target organisations.
• Effective loaning of digital equipment to organisations and their users.
• Enhanced training capacity for organisations.

Impact on individuals

• Improved digital skills and wellbeing among individuals supported by DCW.
• Increased use of technology to manage health and wellbeing.
• Enhanced digital connectivity has alleviated loneliness and improved mental health.

Recommendations

• Prioritise digital inclusion across Welsh Government departments.
• Provide intensive support for under-represented, digitally excluded individuals.
• Maintain the thematic approach adopted in 2024.
• There is value in retaining the DCW brand and its strategic functions.
• Engage the private sector more effectively.
• Set flexible funding targets for future programmes.
• Align future interventions with the Minimum Digital Living Standard (MDLS).
• Continue loaning digital equipment as part of support.
• Financially support the Digital Inclusion Alliance Wales (DIAW) for the next three years with the aim of gradually reducing the Welsh Government's share of overall funding over time.
• Require DIAW to test proof-of-concept initiatives.