New Digital Inclusion Project Launches at Foothold Cymru
Digital Lifelines for Llanelli is a three-year project (2026–2029) led by Foothold Cymru and funded by the Welsh Government Digital Inclusion Wales Core Grant. It supports residents of Tyisha, Bigyn and Glanymor — three of the most deprived wards in Wales — to get online safely and confidently.
Why this project?
Too many people in our community are being left behind by the shift to digital. Through our food services, warm hubs and community projects, we hear the same stories every day:
“My son needs to do homework online, but we’ve only got phones in the house… He falls behind because of it.”
“A decent laptop costs hundreds of pounds… It might as well be a million pounds.”
“Technology moves so fast and I feel like I’m getting left behind.”
Our consultation with local residents found that while 80% had a smartphone, only half had a computer. 60% rated themselves “a little” or “not at all” confident online, and every person we spoke to reported cost barriers to staying connected. Digital exclusion isn’t a lifestyle choice — it’s a driver of inequality.
What we offer
Digital Lifelines provides free, friendly support to help you get online and stay safe. All sessions are available in Welsh and English.
Outreach workshops in your community
Held fortnightly in familiar venues across Tyisha, Bigyn and Glanymor — community centres, schools and faith spaces. Short, informal sessions covering the things you actually need help with:
• Applying for and managing benefits online
• Using the NHS App to book appointments and order prescriptions
• Online banking and budgeting tools
• Accessing school apps and homework platforms
• Job searching and writing CVs
• Staying safe from scams and fraud
• Parental controls and keeping children safe online
Weekly sessions at Foothold Cymru
We will be running weekly small-group and one-to-one sessions. These offer a next step for anyone who wants more in-depth support with:
• Setting up and securing your devices
• Learning to use key apps and websites
• Managing online documents and forms
• Accessing Welsh and English language digital content
• Using video calls to stay in touch with family and friends
• Building confidence to solve everyday digital problems on your own
Devices and connectivity
If you need a device to get online, we can help. Through our Bright Sparks project, we refurbish and redistribute laptops and tablets. We can also help with affordable data and broadband options.
Become a Digital Champion
We’re looking for local people from Tyisha, Bigyn and Glanymor who’d like to help their neighbours get online. As a Digital Champion, you’ll receive free training in:
• Basic digital skills
• Online safety and scam awareness
• The Minimum Digital Living Standard
• Trauma-informed communication
• Safeguarding
No previous experience is needed — just a willingness to help. You’ll make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable skills and experience.
Who is it for?
Digital Lifelines is for anyone living in or around Tyisha, Bigyn and Glanymor who would like help getting online, building digital confidence, or accessing a device. It doesn’t matter how much or how little you already know — everyone is welcome.
Our partners
We will work alongside local schools, family centres, libraries, youth centres and community organisations to make sure support reaches the people who need it.
Funded by
Digital Lifelines for Llanelli is funded by the Welsh Government Digital Inclusion Wales Core Grant.
Get in touch
To find out more, sign up for a session, or ask about becoming a Digital Champion, contact us: alison@footholdcymru.org.uk
