Trusted Connections project policy brief

The Trusted Connections project is a community-led digital inclusion initiative addressing persistent digital inequalities in the North East of England. Delivered through a partnership between Durham University, Digital Safety CIC, and a network of grassroots organisations (Let’s Connect, Sacriston Youth Project, Auxillia Youth Services, The Newcastle Rugby Foundation, Pact House and BornGood), the project focuses on supporting four priority groups: young people, individuals at risk of or experiencing NEET status, unemployed adults, and adults aged 55 and over. Its central aim is to enhance digital access, skills, confidence, and agency through trusted, community-based approaches. At its core, the project challenges traditional models of digital inclusion that prioritise short-term skills training. Instead, it adopts a relational approach grounded in a pedagogy of empowerment, recognising that meaningful digital participation depends on trust, social context, and sustained support. The project is underpinned by a conceptual framework structured around four key pillars of digital inclusion: Access: ensuring availability of devices, connectivity, and support Digital literacies: developing practical and critical digital skills Agency and empowerment: building confidence and the capacity to act Inclusive participation and support: fostering community-based learning and engagement The Trusted Connections project was funded by the UK Government's Department for Science, Innovation and Technology Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund.