W5045 Walsall Connected

Walsall Connected delivers digital, social and financial inclusion support across five dedicated Walsall localities. The service helps residents access Council online services, develop digital confidence, and connect with community-based support through tailored advice, training and signposting to appropriate local services and opportunities. This Lot tends to have higher levels of deprivation, lower educational attainment, and a younger population. This suggests a need for targeted digital programmes, especially for families and young adults, alongside preventative work focused on youth engagement and early intervention in education and employment pathways. Lot 2 is generally more affluent, with higher levels of employment and digital access. However, there may still be pockets of digital exclusion, particularly among older adults. Here, preventative work could focus on social isolation and long term health conditions, using digital tools to support independence and wellbeing. Lot 3 is ethnically diverse and includes areas with both affluence and deprivation. Language barriers and cultural differences may impact digital engagement. Therefore, culturally sensitive digital support, including multilingual resources and tailored training, is essential. Preventative efforts should also address health inequalities and access to services. Lot 4 has a mix of urban and semi-rural areas, with varying levels of connectivity and access. Digital support should focus on greater awareness and local digital training offers across Centres. Preventative work might include transport and access solutions, especially for older or isolated Service Users. Lot 5 delivers a high-quality Walsall Connected in person support service at (firstly) Lichfield Street Hub and (secondly) Walsall Manor Hospital, which are two of the network's highest demand sites requiring consistent, trained Personnel to maintain service standards and quality Walsall Connected in person support at these locations.