When the pandemic hit, service providers were needed more than ever. Unable to rely on their normal means of reaching the communities they serve, the search for digital solutions began. As did the question of how to tackle the complex need of digital inclusion, for those without devices, data or digital skills.
The Reaching Families Remotely project explored this. What we found was that ‘digital’ isn’t a golden arrow, but a handy tool in practitioners’ tool belts when ‘reaching families remotely’.
We’ve developed the ‘9 steps’ to provide practical guidance for practitioners working with families.
The steps can be used to aid day to day delivery, service development and for new service design. They can inform key questions for delivery teams to consider together - and with your funders - when seeking to shape the future of support and ensure all those you work with are able to engage safely and meaningfully.
Put the kettle on, pick a step and be inspired by what new activities you could try to provide equitable and inclusive remote family services. You can also jump straight to helpful resources here.
These practical ‘steps’ are based on the amazing examples of best practice the project surfaced and upon evidence of what works in overcoming barriers to inclusion. They were also developed in partnership with 5 early years charities: Bushy Leaze, Light Peer Support, Koala NW, YMCA Lincolnshire and Linkskill and North Tyneside Community Development Trust.
The work was funded by Catalyst and The National Lottery Community Fund COVID-19 Digital Response, and supported by design agency Shift.
“Tackling digital exclusion is everyone's problem but too often is no one's responsibility.”
Emma Stone- Good Things Foundation
