Black Country Connected Programme & Digital Skills Training

The Black Country Connected Programme supports residents across the Black Country to access digital devices, connectivity and essential digital skills. Graphnet Health has contributed its time and technical expertise to repurpose and reconfigure 225 tablets for the programme, increasing the number of devices available for residents who may otherwise be digitally excluded.

Black Country Connected provides laptops and digital devices on loan, alongside start-up training, ongoing support and data connectivity where needed. The programme helps people access online health services, education, employment opportunities and social connections, while building the confidence and skills needed to use digital tools independently.

Residents are referred into the programme and attend hub days to collect their device, receive 1:1 support and complete short surveys during the loan period. To date, over 4,500 laptops have been distributed, with the 225 tablets repurposed and reconfigured by Graphnet Health being added to support residents without access to a personal device.

The programme has supported a wide range of residents, including older adults using online prescriptions and virtual appointments, refugees progressing into education, people managing long-term conditions through NHS apps and parents returning to work through digital skills training.

Working with local colleges and community learning providers, including City of Wolverhampton College, the programme also offers tailored digital skills training covering basic digital skills, health apps, job searching, online services and confidence-building, with opportunities for residents to progress into accredited learning.