​SCVO have launched the Digital Participation Challenge fund to help get more people online

Twenty five community groups across Scotland have been awarded a share of £138,000 of funding to help get more people using the internet.

Disabled people, older people and disadvantaged parents are just some of those who will be supported to better use technology to improve their quality of life.

The funding comes from the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations run Digital Participation Challenge fund, which is supported by the Scottish Government. It also includes awards that aim to increase the digital capability of third sector organisations.

Chris Yiu, director of digital at SCVO, said: “I was absolutely delighted with the range and standard of applications for the first round of the Digital Participation Challenge fund. Seventy one organisations applied for funding for a wide range of projects aimed at helping to get people online or to increase the digital capability of third sector organisations across Scotland.

I was absolutely delighted with the range and standard of applications for the first round of the Digital Participation Challenge fund

“Twenty five have been offered direct support with awards varying from just over £800 to £15,000. Successful organisations are located across Scotland, from the inner city to the Highlands and Islands with national organisations also awarded.”

SCVO also announced that the Digital Participation Charter, an initiative encourage a range of public and private sector bodies to contribute resources and practical support to encourage digital participation, will also be used to support a further 29 applicants. The groups will be partnered with individual charter signatories.

A second round of applications to the Digital Participation Challenge fund opens on 12 January with a closing date of 13 February 13.

For more information visit digital.scvo.org.uk