The Welsh government has expanded its Minimum Digital Living Standard, which encourages the minimum level of digital inclusion for people in social housing, helping them to become more confident with technology.

Successful pilots in Monmouthshire and North Wales Housing Association have meant that grants will be available for social housing providers to boost their residents’ digital skills. Where needed, Digital Communities Wales additionally supported the pilots with basic digital skills training for residents to use technology safely in their daily lives.

Workshops at North Wales Housing Association have helped people overcome fears about online scams.

The cabinet secretary for social justice, Jane Hutt, said: “Wales has been leading the way on digital inclusion for over ten years, and I’m exceptionally proud of our work on the Minimum Digital Living Standard. This citizen-centred approach re cognises that digital inclusion means more than just internet access — it’s about having the essential digital goods, services, and skills to fully participate in modern life.

“Digital exclusion often reflects wider inequalities in society. That’s why we’re taking bold steps to ensure everyone can benefit from digital technology if they choose to.”