Residents in the Swansea communities of Bonymaen, Clase and Portmead are set to gain lasting digital skills, confidence and access to technology thanks to new funding awarded to Faith in Families.
The charity has secured £15,750 from BT through its social value commitment linked to the delivery of the Swansea Bay City Deal Digital Infrastructure Programme’s Better Broadband Infill Project.
The funding will directly benefit 30 people through an eight-week programme designed to build practical digital skills, improve confidence and open up pathways into volunteering, further learning and employment.
The investment will deliver:
- Hands-on digital skills training to help participants confidently use laptops, email, online forms and essential websites
- Improved communication and workplace confidence
- Greater ability to access online services such as healthcare, education, benefits and job applications
- Clearer routes towards volunteering, training and work opportunities
A key outcome of the funding is improved access to technology. Laptops will be purchased for participants to use during the programme, alongside internet support and guided digital assistance. This ensures those who currently lack devices or connectivity are not excluded from learning.
Natasha Cardone from Faith in Families said:
“This funding allows us to strengthen digital confidence within communities that face real barriers to access. By combining digital skills with confidence-building and communication, we can support families not only to get online, but to thrive.”
The laptops will remain within the community after the programme ends to support families in job searching, homework and school support, accessing public services, and staying connected with friends, family and support networks.
Staff will be equipped to continue delivering the course content in the future, enabling more residents to benefit without the need for additional short-term funding.
Sessions will take place in accessible local venues, with additional one-to-one support available for anyone needing extra help.
Cllr Andrea Williams, Deputy Leader of Swansea Council, said:
“This project is a powerful example of what can happen when investment is directed straight into the heart of our communities.
“By giving people in Bonymaen, Clase and Portmead the confidence, skills and tools to get online, we’re helping to remove long‑standing barriers and opening up new opportunities for learning, connection and support.
“What makes this initiative so special is that it doesn’t just provide equipment – it builds lasting digital confidence within trusted local spaces, ensuring that families can continue to benefit long after the programme ends.”
The Swansea Bay City Deal Digital Infrastructure Programme supports projects that help reduce digital exclusion and ensure communities are not left behind as more services move online.
