The University of Liverpool is spearheading an innovative research initiative aimed at tackling digital exclusion in Greater Manchester. In collaboration with Good Things Foundation, Autotrader, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), this partnership seeks to develop a pioneering, long-term strategy for affordable digital access in the region.
This collaborative effort aligns with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s commitment to combat digital exclusion, reflecting a collective resolve to convert ambition into practical, sustainable action. Notably, over 25% of Greater Manchester’s residents live in the 10% most deprived areas nationally, with Manchester ranked as the fourth most deprived local authority in England, according to the GMCA IMD Report.
Building Foundations for Lasting Change
The Digital Media and Society Institute (DMSI) at the University of Liverpool will support an initial six-month program aimed at exploring and engaging with various stakeholders across Greater Manchester. This initiative will unite organizations from multiple sectors to identify persistent barriers to digital inclusion and propose sustainable solutions. The insights generated will inform Greater Manchester’s long-term digital inclusion strategy and could potentially benefit other UK regions.
GMCA’s involvement ensures that the program produces region-specific outputs that guide long-term action. The focused exploration will create robust evidence on digital affordability and skills needs, based on lived experiences, thereby fostering a shared understanding of sustainable solutions and a clear framework for coordinated investment across Greater Manchester.
“Digital technology and skills underpin access to jobs, education, healthcare, and essential public services. Yet, too many people across Greater Manchester are still excluded because digital access remains unaffordable or out of reach,” said Councillor Nick Peel, Leader of Bolton Council and GMCA Lead for Digital.
Cross-Sector Collaboration
Good Things Foundation will lead the program, leveraging their national expertise in digital inclusion and collaborating with partners across government, business, the voluntary sector, and academia to support research and analysis. GMCA will convene stakeholders from local authorities, housing providers, and community organizations to ensure the work aligns with regional priorities and supports coordinated efforts.
Autotrader, a FTSE-listed company headquartered in Manchester, has previously contributed to digital inclusion through the Greater Manchester Tech Fund. Now, they will offer commercial insight and help explore sustainable, long-term approaches to improving affordable digital access.
Professor Simeon Yates from the University of Liverpool stated, “Addressing digital exclusion effectively requires a robust, evidence-based approach. Our research will provide the necessary data and academic rigor to ensure this five-year plan is built on solid foundations, leading to sustainable and impactful change for Greater Manchester residents.”
Implications and Future Directions
The implications of this initiative are significant, as digital inclusion is fundamental to creating a thriving city region where everyone can live a good life. By working together, the program aims to remove barriers to access and develop an evidence-led approach that helps communities across Greater Manchester benefit from a digitally enabled region.
Christos Tsaprounis, People & Culture Director at Autotrader, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying, “Through our partnership with Good Things Foundation and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, we are excited to unite expertise, insight, and local leadership to better understand the barriers to digital inclusion across our communities. At Autotrader, we are committed to exploring sustainable, long-term solutions that widen access to digital tools and skills, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in society and enrich their lives.”
James Muscat-Sharp, Director of Partnerships at Good Things Foundation, highlighted the challenges of digital exclusion, noting, “Digital technology is essential for access to jobs, health, and public services. However, digital exclusion—lacking affordable connectivity, devices, skills, or support—is a significant challenge in the UK, particularly in Greater Manchester. As services move online, this exclusion makes everyday life harder and deepens the disadvantage for those offline. Greater Manchester has set a bold ambition—and rightly so. To achieve it, we need a clear understanding of where the barriers sit and how they can be addressed sustainably.”
This initiative represents a critical step towards achieving digital inclusion in Greater Manchester, with the potential to set a precedent for other regions across the UK. As the program progresses, the collaboration aims to build a shared evidence base and develop practical approaches capable of delivering permanent change.
