More than 5,000 adults and young people across Stoke on Trent have received digital support over the past 18 months through Wavemaker’s DigitAll Stoke Programme.
Funded by Stoke on Trent City Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme has procured and distributed digital equipment with a total retail value of more than £252,000, supporting individuals and community organisations to tackle digital exclusion.
Delivery is rooted in local communities through 17 Wavemaker Connect digital inclusion hubs, with more in development. Based within trusted organisations, the hubs support residents facing barriers linked to mental health, unemployment, homelessness, disability, family support needs and veteran services.
Each hub is supported by a dedicated Digital Champion and delivers tailored training focused on digital skills for everyday life, employment, creativity and health, reinforced through an online learning platform providing on demand access to courses and resources.
In July 2025, Wavemaker was named Responsible Business of the Year at the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Business Awards.
Alex Rowley, Director and Chief Technical Officer, said: “Our partnerships with local organisations, and the establishment of Wavemaker Connect centres, have been pivotal in reaching people who would otherwise be left behind.
“With the addition of our device bank and online learning platform, we are empowering individuals to learn at a time, pace and place that suits them, supported by a growing community and access to essential digital skills for everyday life.”
Ben McManus, Director and Partnerships Lead, added: “This recognition reflects the urgency of digital inclusion and skills work locally. As technology and AI advance at pace, digital skills are no longer optional. They are essential for accessing services, securing work, and participating fully in everyday life, which is why building sustainable, locally delivered digital skills provision has never been more important.”
With no confirmed funding for digital inclusion beyond March 2026, Wavemaker is now working with partners to secure sustainable digital skills provision for the future.
Organisations looking to embed digital skills within their workforce or services can find out more at www.wavemaker.org.uk
