Opus Broadband has been working with a number of charities, schools, community groups and social housing providers across Blackburn , Darwen and Accrington. It has been installing free broadband services as part of their ‘Internet for Everyone Campaign’. The company has now signed up to the Charter for Digital Inclusion launched by the Digital Poverty Alliance.
The charter calls for organisations to commit to three or more goals on 'raising awareness, accessible services, device donation, digital skills development, and partnership for impact'. It is also being supported by organisations across the country including the Phoenix Group, Standard Life, Currys, and the Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust. The Darwen Asylum and Refugee Enterprise (DARE) are one of the charities who being supported by the 'Internet For Everyone' campaign.
Below, Arts2Heal who are based in Blackburn. Chief executive of the Digital Poverty Alliance, Elizabeth Anderson, said: “We are advocating to ensure the voices of those impacted by digital poverty influence policy decisions. “We also recognise that no one sector can end digital poverty alone, so launching our Charter for Digital Inclusion at this time is a strategic call to action for every organisation to embed digital inclusivity within how they work.
” Working closely with several independent charities, schools, community groups and social housing providers, Opus said it is identifying families in need of support and prioritising those with the greatest need for digital access. Simon Jones, from Opus Broadband, said: “We are proud to be one of the signatories of the Charter for Digital Inclusion. “In today's increasingly digital society, access to the internet is a necessity, not a luxury.
It facilitates educational opportunities, remote working, healthcare access, and social connections. “Recognising the critical role that internet connectivity plays, Opus Broadband has committed to playing its part in bridging the digital divide by providing free broadband to those who need it most." By providing free internet, the company said it wanted to ‘empower families with the tools needed for education, job opportunities, and essential services’.
Simon added: “For us, this is a long-term commitment that is part of Opus Broadband’s broader social responsibility and digital inclusion. “We are aiming to expand similar efforts to other regions in the near future as we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to connect and participate fully in the digital world. “By partnering with social housing providers, we are taking a significant step towards eliminating digital poverty and fostering a more inclusive society.
" If your community group or charity could benefit from free internet then you can find out more on the company's website..
