LGA Digital Connectivity applications now open

“The Digital Connectivity programme, which is part of our sector-led improvement offer, is helping all councils to provide vital services for residents who don’t have access or confidence to use digital platforms."

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Councils across the country are invited to apply for funding from the Local Government Association for projects to leverage their position as place shapers to develop capacity and understanding to improve local and regional connectivity.



As communities across the country continue to deal with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, access to fast and reliable digital connectivity is even more of a necessity.



The LGA’s Digital Connectivity programme will see several councils chosen to receive £20,000 to better meet the needs of their residents, improve productivity and their livelihoods through connectivity innovation. The programme is part of the LGA’s sector-led improvement offer which provides robust peer challenges and support to help councils improve performance, become more efficient and share good practice.



As place shapers at the centre of their communities, the LGA said councils across all tiers have a fundamental role to play in helping to enhance the digital connectivity of their local areas.



It said that with better connected residents and employees, councils can create environments to test and develop innovative technologies and services to improve the lives of their communities while modernising ways of working and living.



At present, 610,000 homes and businesses in the UK cannot access a decent broadband connection, while only 67 per cent of UK landmass receives 4G coverage from all operators.

The application period will conclude on November 12.

Cllr Peter Fleming, Chairman of the LGA’s Improvement and Innovation Board, said:



“Councils are best placed to help their communities get through the coronavirus pandemic.



“The Digital Connectivity programme, which is part of our sector-led improvement offer, is helping all councils to provide vital services for residents who don’t have access or confidence to use digital platforms.



“As COVID-19 is causing more families to work and educate from home, it is more important than ever that all households have access to good, reliable broadband.”

Notes to editors

For more information and the programme prospectus.

Apply for the Digital Connectivity programme.