Fibrus commits £60k to tackle digital poverty in Cumbria

Fibrus is awarding £60,000 in grants this year to tackle digital poverty across Cumbria with a particular focus on those aged 18 and under and the over-60s.

Ten regional community groups received these grants through the first round of funding to help, thanks to the Fibrus Community Fund Cumbria, which launched in April, in partnership with Cumbria Community Foundation.

For example, Carlisle Sight Support, a charity supporting the visually impaired across north Cumbria, group received funding to buy Echo Dot smart speakers and run training and awareness-raising sessions helping the visually impaired make the most of the technology.

Dean Jooste, Stakeholder Director at Fibrus, visited the group for its monthly lunchtime social get together and helped demonstrate the smart speakers.

The second round of funding for the Fibrus Community Fund has opened for applications on Monday 21 August, closing on 10 November 2023, and organisations from across Cumbria are encouraged to apply.

Dean Jooste, Stakeholder Director at Fibrus, said: “We saw a real need in Cumbria to address digital poverty, and through the Fibrus Community Fund, we heard from some fantastic organisations. 

"By enabling those in need to access computers and online services, we can boost the opportunities of youngsters and improve the quality of life for older people.”