Natasha Nelson’s journey to becoming Newham’s Digital Inclusion Coordinator began with her deep passion for both STEM and community work. With a background in science, technology, engineering, and maths, Natasha was naturally drawn to digital inclusion, especially for the borough’s older residents. "I’m passionate about equity and equality" she explains. "Digital inclusion is often overlooked, and I want to ensure that as we make technological advancements, all residents have access to services."
Reflecting on her work, Natasha recalls a transformative experience at a Newham Health & Wellness event. "It was my first outreach event, and it made me realise I needed to develop more inclusive projects for residents experiencing homelessness and those with complex needs" she shares. After meeting a gentleman who lacked even a basic mobile phone, Natasha helped him get one—a moment that "changed his life" as he was finally able to access essential services and stay connected.
In her role, Natasha’s days are filled with diverse activities that drive digital inclusivity. She engages with voluntary and community sector groups to share initiatives from the Newham Digital Inclusion Alliance, organises digital skills sessions, and coordinates schemes like device and data (internet/connectivity) gifting. Through partnerships with organisations such as the Good Things Foundation, she ensures that vulnerable residents have access to essential digital tools including laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and SIM cards.
One of Natasha's key partners is Frames of Mind, an organisation that blends digital skills with the arts while fostering a strong community of older residents. From virtual reality sessions to device loaning pilots, Frames of Mind offers innovative ways to make technology more accessible and engaging for older adults.
Looking ahead, Natasha emphasises that the digital skills older residents need should be tailored to their lives. She is introducing ‘Tea and Tech’ sessions to provide personalised support, with a strong focus on online safety – a critical skill for older people who are often targets of fraud. "It’s important that we equip older residents with the skills that matter most to them" Natasha says.
Digital inclusion is also a vital component of Newham's Ageing Well Strategy. By improving access to technology, Natasha's initiatives help older residents stay connected, maintain social ties, and access essential services, all of which contribute to their overall well-being.
However, the challenges are significant. From overcoming resistance to technology to addressing the lack of consistent support, Natasha remains committed to finding solutions. Her goal is to make digital inclusion an ongoing journey, not a one-time event, with drop-in sessions that allow residents to continue learning and practising their skills.
Through data collection and feedback, Natasha measures the impact of her work, celebrating successes such as increased digital confidence among older residents. "We’ve seen first-hand how access to technology can lead to more independent and connected lives" she says.
For communities and professionals looking to improve digital inclusion, Natasha’s advice is simple: “Join the Newham Digital Inclusion Alliance – by joining you’ll receive the support and resources you need to help Newham stay connected.”
For Natasha Nelson, digital inclusion is more than just a job – it’s about ensuring that every resident, regardless of age or circumstance, can thrive in the digital age.
