In this episode, we’ll be looking at Leeds’ thriving tech and digital sector and how we can work more collaboratively with them to share a passion and commitment to bring about a sustainable change across Leeds. 

Leeds digital sector is currently the fastest growing in the UK, and employs around 30,000 people, contributing to £6.6bn to the local economy. It has continued to thrive during the pandemic and is playing a vital role in the city’s economic recovery. 

But not everyone is thriving in the world of digital.  10% of the adult population are not online at all, according to the Office of National Statistics which is a staggering 5 million people.  The pandemic highlighted issues of digital inequality in Leeds. Access to or lack of internet and technological equipment such as laptops and computers led to children already at a disadvantage falling further behind with their education.

In this episode we're joined by Ben McKenna of Solidaritech and David Smith of Crossgates & District Good Neighbour’s Scheme, two Community Organisations tackling the digital divide in our local communities.  We're also joined by Stuart Clarke co-founder of Leeds Digital Festival who talks about how the tech and digital sector can get involved to help tackle the divide.

A full transcript of the podcast can be found here.

Leeds Community Foundation creates opportunities for all by working with partners to make a positive impact within communities across Leeds and Bradford. We do this by generating and investing philanthropic giving as well as maximising statutory funding to deliver grants and provide trusted expertise into Community Organisations, benefitting thousands of local people.

Learn more about Leeds Community Foundation and subscribe to our newsletter here.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @LeedsCommFound.

Contact Leeds Community Foundation

• Call us on 0113 242 2426
• Email us at [email protected]
• Tweet us at @LeedsCommFound
• Sign up to our newsletter here