Involve Kent Launches New Digital Inclusion Hub

On Wednesday 30 October, Involve Kent officially opened its new Digital Inclusion & Community Hub, Digitally Connected.

The opening was attended by Deputy Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Denis Charles Spooner, who unveiled the newly refurbished space. Once an unused storage shed, the building has been transformed into a bright, welcoming and accessible community hub where local people will be able to access digital support and resources.

The event also welcomed the team from construction company Magrock, whose support was instrumental in bringing this project to life. Through site scoping, practical advice, planning, materials, skilled expertise and volunteer support, Magrock helped transform the space into a valuable community asset. The project was selected as part of the company’s 10-year celebration charity initiative, the Magrock 10 Impact Series, which supports projects that create lasting benefits for local communities. Involve is incredibly grateful for Magrock’s generosity and commitment to creating a safe, practical, and inclusive space.

Based at Maidstone Community Centre, Digitally Connected has been created to help tackle digital exclusion by providing free access to the internet, devices and support. The hub will offer a welcoming environment where people can access online services, complete digital forms, connect with family and friends, and build the confidence and skills to navigate an increasingly digital world.

As more essential services move online, digital access has become more of a necessity rather than a luxury. Yet many people continue to face barriers, whether due to cost of devices and internet access, limited digital skills, disability, language barriers or social isolation. Digitally Connected aims to bridge this gap by providing both practical support and a friendly space where people can learn at their own pace. The hub will particularly support families, older people, unpaid carers and those living with a long-term health condition.

Gary Wells, CEO of Involve Kent said: “We understand how important it is for people to stay connected in order to live well. Digital technology plays a huge role in everyday life, from accessing services and information to maintaining relationships and reducing isolation. However, many people still face barriers to getting online, whether that’s affordability, lack of confidence, or not knowing where to start.

We wanted to create a space where people can receive support and develop the skills they need to use technology confidently. We hope the Digitally Connected hub will become a valuable resource that helps local people feel more connected and independent.”

Richard Brewer, Managing Director of Magrock, said: “It has been a privilege to support this project. As part of our Magrock 10 Impact Series, we have pledged to support projects each year that create lasting benefits through learning and development opportunities, and this was a fantastic project to begin with. We look forward to seeing the positive impact Digitally Connected will have on local people and the wider community.”

Involve is currently finalising plans for the rollout of the new service and will share further information about how local people can access and book the hub soon.