In a groundbreaking initiative led by Scotland’s Digital Health and Care Innovation Centre, over 1,700 individuals in Scotland have received assistance through Digital Lifelines. This program, funded by the Scottish government at £3 million, provides participants with digital devices to combat drug-related harm and fatalities.
Participants are granted access to devices that facilitate connections with support services, education, entertainment, and more. Since its launch in April 2021, the program has benefitted over 1,700 individuals, distributing 1,056 devices and 1,467 connectivity packages.
Alongside providing mobile devices and data plans, Digital Lifelines also offers digital training and continuous support through digital champions. By granting access to essential aspects of life like online banking, healthcare, education, and social interactions, the program plays a vital role in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
Participants include those experiencing homelessness, former detainees, abuse survivors, and individuals transitioning from hospital or residential care. Through initiatives like setting up email addresses, the program empowers individuals to actively engage in communications concerning them, potentially altering the way they are perceived and treated.
Carrie Thomson, Digital Lifelines Scotland portfolio lead at the Digital Health and Care Innovation Centre, emphasized the importance of the program in fostering digital inclusion and safety for vulnerable groups. The innovative approach taken by Digital Lifelines has garnered global attention and is seen as a crucial step in reducing drug-related harm and fatalities.
This four-year initiative extends the Scottish Government’s efforts to enhance digital inclusion across marginalized groups in Scotland, including the elderly. Its success has prompted interest from other countries such as Ireland and the UAE, who are closely monitoring its progress.
