Sky has launched a new programme designed to ensure those most at risk from being digitally excluded are given access to the right skills, technology, and connectivity.
Sky Up will see £10 million invested to level up communities in markets where Sky operates.
It will focus on the under 25s in low income areas, where Ofcom research shows that one in five school children do not have consistent access to a suitable device for their online schoolwork. It will also target the over 65s, the age group that makes up the majority of people who are digitally excluded.
Sky Up will deliver 100 new Digital Hubs, powered by Sky’s broadband network and partner with local and trusted charities to provide free internet access and digital skills support. Sky Up’s first two Digital Hubs will be located in Hackney, East London, and Leeds in Yorkshire, and will be delivered in partnership with Badu Sports and Age UK respectively.
Nana Badu, CEO and founder of Badu Sports, said: “During lockdown we all truly understood the gap in digital equality for the most underserved communities. The new Sky Up digital studio in Hackney is an important solution to start closing that gap. We are delighted to be partnering with Sky who are seeking deeper impact when it comes to tackling digital inequality.”
Through a major expansion of Sky Up Academy Studios, Sky aims to engage 20,000 students a year in its successful Academy Studios initiative which has already inspired 167,000 young people looking to work in the creative industries. The programme will be expanded to a new site at Sky Studios Elstree and will be taken on the road to communities across the UK through a new e-vehicle mobile studio.