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Context: Digital exclusion was identified as a significant barrier for older residents and people with disabilities accessing services.
Approach: West Lothian Council developed the IT Buddies scheme through their Advice Shop to provide peer support for digital skills.
Implementation:
- Model highlighted for potential adoption: The scheme was specifically mentioned in consultation feedback: “The IT Buddies scheme run by the West Lothian Council Advice Shop was highlighted as a model that could be adopted further”
- Community-based delivery: Referenced as part of broader digital inclusion efforts
- Part of comprehensive digital inclusion strategy: Connected to equality outcomes focused on improved access to services
Impact:
- Model identified for potential replication by other councils
- Part of West Lothian’s commitment to digital skills training and digital inclusion
- Addresses barriers faced by older people and those with disabilities
Key learning:
- Successful models can be replicated across different councils
- Community-based approaches are valued by practitioners
- Digital inclusion requires multiple approaches including peer support
(Source: Equality Outcomes 2021-2025 Consultation feedback, Edinburgh Council)