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Hello, and welcome back to our monthly newsletter!
It's been an action-packed month in the digital and tech ecosystem - and for us! From celebrating the opening of Manchester's incredible Campfield Mega Hub in an action-packed launch event, to enjoying thought-provoking talks on all things design and digital at Nexer's Camp Digital conference - we've stretched our brains and been inspired by the brilliant people and organisations driving inclusive innovation in Manchester.
After five co-creation workshops, three innovative tech solutions & countless inspiring conversations, we've also been thrilled to finally be able to share the stories of our CommuniCity pilots. Each week in July, we're shining a long-awaited spotlight on learnings, outcomes & next steps from each of our pilot projects - so make sure to keep your eyes peeled! (Missed out? Catch up on all the stories over on our Digital Strategy blog.)
We've also been excited to welcome a new face to the Digital Inclusion team. Bringing a wealth of previous experience in digital literacy education and community engagement, Business Support Officer Georgie McRae will be supporting the delivery of digital inclusion projects that help bridge the digital divide for the people who need it most.
In this month's newsletter, we're also highlighting key learnings from TICTeC, the world's leading summit for pro-democratic technologies; sharing Senior Digital Strategy Officer Megan Lawless' reflections on connectivity and the future of Manchester's telecoms ecosystem; and showcasing the Catalyst Network's incredible evidence repository of tech harms and injustices.
Happy reading, and see you next month!
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How can we design digital services that place people at their heart?
Last week, we spent a fantastic morning at the Customer Experience Live Show, joining industry experts, academic and local authority colleagues from across the UK to share ideas and approaches that could create more innovative, human-centred, and meaningful customer experiences.
The day kicked off with an insightful panel - featuring Luiza Morris-Warren, Rebecca Gordon, Dave Carter and Manchester City Council's own Digital Content Designer Katie McCall - discussing practical strategies for designing intuitive, human-centred digital services.
We're proud to support our brilliant colleagues driving inclusive and people-centred approaches to digital. To read our full reflections on the panel, head over to the link below.
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We're sharing our reflections on TICTeC, the world's leading summit for pro-democracy technology!
We were hugely grateful for the opportunity to share insights from the People’s Panel for AI - a project empowering residents to shape the use of AI in front-line service delivery. Alongside sharing our own learnings, two days of inspiring conversations, talks & workshops left us with plenty of food for thought!
A few of our key takeaways:
- Attacks on civic society are growing, but events like TICTeC show how democratic institutions are pushing back and using technology to uphold fundamental human rights.
- Democratic institutions are being called upon to reclaim agency over technology’s role in society and reduce dependency on big tech.
- Participatory approaches to innovation could ensure that new technologies are shaped by the needs and values of the communities they impact.
While this may have been our first time at TICTeC, it certainly won’t be our last! Click on the links below to discover more insights from the event or watch our full panel presentation.
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This month, we were proud to see our very own Senior Digital Strategy Officer, Megan Lawless, featured in UKTIN's Telecoms Trailblazers series!
From championing inclusive innovation to driving better connectivity for Manchester's people, places and businesses, Megan shared insights from working across the telecoms ecosystem as part of the Digital Strategy team.
Read the full article on the UKTIN website to explore Megan's thoughts on the value of holistic approaches to technology, why a vibrant and progressive telecoms ecosystem is becoming increasingly important for the UK - and the most ridiculous thing she's done in the name of work!
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 DiSH Accelerator Programme Opens
Calling all digital start-ups and social enterprises looking to improve their cyber resilience - applications for the DiSH Accelerator programme have now opened!
The structured twelve week programme is designed to empower digital start-ups to accelerate their growth while enhancing their readiness for cyber threats. Focusing on leveraging cyber capabilities as a driver for business growth, DiSH's unique programme focuses on helping participants build robust digital foundations that can propel their success.
Benefits of the programme include access to free workspace, expert mentoring, tailored masterclasses, pitch coaching, and facilitated introductions to key industry players.
Applications opened on 7th July, and close on 24th August. To find out more information - or apply for a place - head over to the DiSH website via the link below!
Evidence Repository of Tech Harms & Injustices
Over the last two years, a growing number of reports and studies have shown how technology contributes to and deepens injustice and inequality. However, evidence can be fragmented across different disciplines and domains, making it harder to form a comprehensive picture of current challenges.
In partnership with the Catalyst Network, the Riz Test's Shaf Choudry has curated a free open repository of recent research, case studies, and analysis of tech harms and injustices.
The evidence base covers a range of issues where technology creates injustice, including digital exclusion, AI bias and discrimination, surveillance and privacy, algorithmic exploitation and the spread of misinformation.
If you're looking for quality, up-to-date insights to support campaigns around tech and digital, head over to the Catalyst Network's website to explore the full database!
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Digital Inclusion Good News
In July, our Digital Inclusion team had the pleasure of visiting the Cheetham and Crumpsall Horticultural Society (CCHS). After taking a tour of the stunning allotment, the team met with the Treasurer of the Committee to learn about how digital inclusion is being embedded into the Society's offer.
Since receiving a GetBox from the Digital Inclusion team - providing on-site WiFi at zero cost - CCHS has been able to offer free digital drop-in sessions to help their members build confidence using their devices and access services and training online.
Being able to support members to improve their digital literacy has become a valuable addition to the community work already thriving at CCHS. The Digital Inclusion team is very grateful to have been a part of it!
If you're part of a community group and would like a consultation with the Digital Inclusion team to enhance your digital offer, reach out via the link below!
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Every month, we'll be sharing updates, news, and opportunities from the Digital Strategy Team, our partners, and the wider digital ecosystem. Whether you're interested in collaborating, have questions, or simply want to learn more about our ambitious vision for Manchester's digital future, we'd love to hear from you!
Find out about the different ways you can reach us below:
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