Unlocking Connection: How Community Mapping Can Close the Digital Divide

In today's world of advanced technology, you'd think that finding information is as simple as a click of a button. But is it really that easy for everyone?

The answer can vary greatly depending on who you are, what you're searching for, and whether you have the means and skills to access the information you need. Imagine living with a disability, visible or hidden, or being in a vulnerable position where searching for help online feels risky.

Finding help online can be challenging for everyone, but it's crucial to recognise the unique circumstances each person faces. Here are some barriers that can stand in the way:

1. Individual Needs:?The nature of what you're searching for can greatly influence the process. Different needs require different approaches and keywords.
2. Search Skills:?Navigating a search engine effectively is a skill that takes practice, especially for those unfamiliar with technology.
3. Accessibility Limitations:?People with disabilities may encounter challenges due to website design or the tech they use to access the internet.
4. Vulnerability and Safety:?For some, searching for help online raises concerns about safety and privacy, which can be a significant barrier.
5. Information Overload:?The sheer volume of information online can be overwhelming, making it difficult to discern trustworthy sources from misleading content.

Imagine needing help but lacking a strong support network, or trying to find resources for someone in a different part of the UK. What if you don't have internet access or simply don't know how to search for what you need?

Finding a restaurant or hotel online might be easy, but locating a small community group offering debt advice or a local food bank can be far more challenging. You might turn to your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), which handled over 42.7 million online visits (Year 2022-2023). But what if you can't find the support or opportunity you need?

With 47% of voluntary organisations being micro-sized, many small support groups might not have a web presence. How do you find them unless someone tells you about them?

Local Authorities often compile directories to fulfil statutory duties, like supporting children with special educational needs. However, these directories can become complacent, focusing on well-known organisations and overlooking smaller, grassroots groups.

The World Health Organisation has recognised the importance of social connection, launching the Commission for Social Connection to address isolation and loneliness. Social isolation has been linked to serious health impacts, including anxiety, depression, and increased cardiovascular risk.

Years ago, I worked with vulnerable individuals and noticed the lack of a simple way to find local support. This inspired the creation of aDoddle.org , a UK-wide community mapping platform that allows small groups and charities to list their services or resources for free.

aDoddle is working to connect people to their options & resources in their area or across the UK, empowering charities to control their information and communicate directly with those seeking help. It features a unique traffic light system to ensure ease of checking that information is current and reliable.

In today's cost-of-living crisis, Local Authorities face tough financial decisions. The recent report on Financial Distress in Local Authorities highlights the need for reform. Yet, some resist creating lean systems, preferring traditional methods that can quickly become outdated.

Imagine if every public sector organisation and charity could access aDoddle, saving time and effort while supporting more people efficiently. aDoddle is already here, ready to be integrated into any community's website, fostering resilient communities and reducing social isolation.

Together, we can improve lives, one click at a time. Whether you're looking to find help, volunteer, or support aDoddle, you can be part of a movement that bridges the digital divide and empowers communities across the UK.

References used in researching information:

1) https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/about-us1/impact-of-citizens-advice-service/all-our-impact/

2) https://www.ncvo.org.uk/news-and-insights/news-index/uk-civil-society-almanac-2023/executive-summary

3) https://www.who.int/groups/commission-on-social-connection

4) https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5804/cmselect/cmcomloc/56/summary.html

5) https://www.ndti.org.uk/about-us/about-ndti

6a) https://peterbates.org.uk/ - Resources developed over thirty years of life and whilst working in human services including in?probation, the employment service, social services, the NHS, audit?and consultancy.

6b) https://peterbates.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Introduction-to-community-maps-and-directories.pdf

6c) https://peterbates.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Goldmining.pdf https://peterbates.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Goldmining.pdf ?

Please note that this article was created with the support of one of my amazing support workers, Debbie. Thank you Debbie Williams , without your help I would never have been able to put all of this information together in such a concise way.