Glagow’s Connected Lives project awarded the Scottish Government Digital Pioneers Mental Health Fund to support digital inclusion to people across the city.
In July 2023, our Glasgow Integrated Services were awarded £54,677 by the Scottish Government’s Digital Pioneers Mental Health Fund to provide digital inclusion support to 60 people across the North East, North West and South of the city. The project – Connected Lives – supports people in Glasgow in three main ways:
- Providing access to a device and 12 months of unlimited internet connectivity
- Person-centred support to build digital confidence
- Opportunity to take part in activities via a weekly online peer network
To date, the project has supported over 40 people to get online to meet new people, look after their wellbeing, and try new things. Membership of the peer network is steadily growing, with network members actively involved in decision-making on the group’s values and activity schedule. The group meets every Tuesday via Zoom to take part in a wide range of activities, including:
- Bingo
- Pottery painting
- Photography sessions
- Escape rooms
- Pictionary
- Quizzes
People we support have noted that they value having a space to come together with other people who can relate to their experiences to have fun and support each other.
Here’s what some people we support have had to say about being part of Connected Lives:
“It’s been the best support I’ve had. It’s given me a bit of confidence and it has taken a big load off me as well.”
“It’s been a great help with my mental health, giving me access to things to help with how I feel and access the things I enjoy.”
“This is pure fun! Why haven’t I tried this sooner?!”