Digital exclusion
Barking and Dagenham Council is addressing resident struggles with digital exclusion by reviewing communication methods and exploring new app technologies.
In September 2026, Barking and Dagenham residents are facing challenges accessing council services due to digital exclusion, as concerns were raised at an Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting. Councillors highlighted the need for accessible information, including traditional methods for older residents and those without internet access. The council is also exploring the 'Loki' app as a potential free communication tool for residents.
Brent Council continues to tackle digital exclusion as part of its 2024-2028 Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy, according to a council highlight in September 2026. The council reported advancements in making services more accessible and strengthening the use of EDI data to understand needs better.
In November 2025, Tower Hamlets Council discussed a new Digital Inclusion Action Plan for 2025-2028, aiming to provide residents with the tools and skills for a digital world. This plan builds on a previous strategy that saw a reduction of around 6,000 digitally excluded residents. No upcoming meetings are currently scheduled to discuss digital exclusion.
Key facts
- Barking and Dagenham residents are struggling with digital exclusion, impacting access to council services, as raised in September 2026. Source
- Barking and Dagenham Council is exploring the 'Loki' app for resident communication, discussed in September 2026. Source
- Brent Council continues to tackle digital exclusion as part of its 2024-2028 EDI strategy, highlighted in September 2026. Source
- Tower Hamlets Council discussed a new Digital Inclusion Action Plan for 2025-2028 in November 2025. Source
- Tower Hamlets' previous Digital Inclusion Action Plan (2021-2024) saw a decrease of around 6,000 digitally excluded residents. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.