This webinar discussed how important digital access is for all young people, particularly those who are care experienced. The participants consider the various aspects of digital inclusion, what would be required to achieved this from local and national partners, and how to create the pathway to a society where all have the benefits of digital access.

This report shares the findings of a focused piece of research carried out in Scotland by CELCIS and partners at the University of Edinburgh. The aim of the research was to understand care leavers' experiences of digital exclusion before and during the COVID-19 restrictions in Scotland in 2020 and builds on earlier work which explored this issue by looking at the experience and provision across 17 local authority areas in Scotland by surveying those working within local authority services.

Who took part?

The conversation was facilitated by journalist and broadcaster Pennie Taylor. 

Taking part in the discussion were:

• Kenny McGhee, Throughcare and Aftercare Consultant, CELCIS and co-author of the report
• Autumn Roesch-Marsh, Lecturer in Social Work at University of Edinburgh and co-author of the report
• David McNeill, SCVO and the Connecting Scotland programme
• Maarjo Mändmaa, CEO, Hoolekandeteenused, Estonia; former leader of the Public Services and Social Innovation Task Force
• Olivia Khan, worked with the Champions Board in South Ayrshire and is now a digital innovator in Berlin
• Sue Willing, Pathways Review Manager, Aberdeenshire Council
• Linda MacLennan, Resource Manager for Corporate Parenting and Engagement, Highland Council
• Megan Pirie, Team Leader for Integrated Children and Family Services, Aberdeen City Council
• Mhairi Reid, Evidence and Influencing Coordinator, Life Changes Trust

Read Digital Divide report

Read a blog post by Olivia Khan