A new coalition bringing together major regional authorities and digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation has been launched, in what leaders are calling a significant step towards tackling the UK’s digital divide.
The partnership is underpinned by a series of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) agreed with the Greater London Authority, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Tees Valley Combined Authority, West of England Combined Authority, West Midlands Combined Authority and West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Together, the organisations say the move marks a shift towards embedding digital inclusion at the heart of public services, with a focus on long-term systems change at the regional and national level.
The agreements formalise a shared ambition to treat access to the internet and basic digital skills as essential infrastructure — critical not only for social inclusion, but also for economic growth and regional renewal. The coalition aims to ensure that millions currently facing digital exclusion are not left behind as technology and AI reshape society.
Key priorities include strengthening regional collaboration, accelerating locally led solutions, and building momentum to influence national policy. Partners will draw on existing infrastructure, such as community networks and device redistribution schemes, to expand reach and impact.
The coalition builds on existing partnerships, including ongoing work with Greater Manchester Combined Authority and engagement across the North East, providing a foundation for wider national progress.
Emma Stone, Director of Evidence and Engagement at Good Things Foundation, said the announcement represents ‘an unmissable moment’ to drive change.
She added:
“This is a powerful statement that tackling digital exclusion requires a united, place-based approach. By aligning national infrastructure with regional leadership, we can accelerate the systems change needed to make digital inclusion a reality for everyone.”
Leaders across the combined authorities echoed the importance of collaboration, highlighting the role digital access and skills play in employment, education and community wellbeing.
Theo Blackwell, Chief Digital Officer at the Greater London Authority, said the partnership strengthens efforts to ensure digital inclusion becomes a core part of service delivery across the capital.
Meanwhile, regional leaders in Liverpool City Region, Tees Valley, the West of England and the West Midlands pointed to the growing importance of digital capability in unlocking economic opportunity, supporting communities and ensuring no one is excluded from the benefits of technological change.
