Crossing the Digital Divide: Nick’s story

A new beginning

Nicholas (Nick) arrived in the UK from South Africa with hope and determination, seeking a brighter future for himself and his young son.

However, the challenges of settling into a new country without a stable internet connection quickly became apparent.

Struggling to get connected

As Nick and his son moved between houses, the lack of internet access made it difficult for them to establish a sense of normalcy. Homeschooling his son became nearly impossible without the necessary online resources. The digital divide felt like an insurmountable barrier.

"Without an internet connection, life felt awkward for us. We were in a bind."

Facing financial hardship

Being on Universal Credit and supporting his son from those benefits left Nick with limited financial resources. The lack of connectivity weighed heavily on him, as he felt helpless in his efforts to find employment and provide a stable education for his son.

A glimmer of hope

In his search for digital support, Nick discovered Starting Point, a community organisation in Stockport. They provided him with free mobile data from the National Databank, offering a lifeline that transformed their daily lives.

"It helped us out immensely. They got us onto the internet and got my son back into school."

Empowered by connectivity

With a stable internet connection, Nick's son could resume his education, and Nick could more effectively search for job opportunities. The initially overwhelming challenges began to fade, replaced by a sense of possibility and hope.

Grateful for the support he received, Nick began volunteering at Starting Point. He wanted to pay forward the kindness that had made such a significant impact on his and his son's lives. Nick now assists with digital drop-in sessions, helping others navigate the digital world and access the internet just as he had been helped.

Through his volunteer work, Nick has become an integral part of his local community. He helps others overcome the same challenges he once faced, fostering a sense of connection and shared progress. His story is a testament to the transformative power of digital inclusion and the incredible impact it can have on individuals and communities alike.

"It’s bridging the divide and bringing people forward. It’s getting people back into the world."