Hi there — I’m Joseph Chambers, a Digital Inclusion Consultant at FarrPoint.
My role is extremely diverse, which I love. One day, I am working with a local authority and the next, I’m talking to midwives to understand their connectivity needs to help them deliver babies in remote locations. My position is not focused on infrastructure and technology, but on how people access connectivity and make the most out of telecoms.
Recently, I worked with Tower Hamlets Council to develop its new digital inclusion plan. We used geographical demographic mapping to understand the areas in the borough that are most at risk of exclusion, and the typical profile of the people without access. Interestingly, we found that access to connectivity varies across the borough, and smaller, more targeted interventions are needed. For example, high-income young residents, who are generally very digitally competent, live next to older locals who might struggle to access technology.
Digital inclusion is increasingly important. As more of the world goes online, people are required to be connected and confident with technological devices. This work is critical. Children need to be online for school, and others need a connection to stay in touch with loved ones. However, it can be difficult to adapt. Every week, there is something new, and the requirements are always changing. How do we ensure that our infrastructure is being maximised? We listen, and we adapt. And it’s just reality that some people need a bit more help with that; therefore, we need to ensure we identify and support those groups early.
What do you enjoy most about working in this space?
Working in the sector has been great for meeting people from different backgrounds and sectors. Last week I was speaking to a municipality in Australia, the week before - an organisation in Malawi - I really like that about my job. Digital inclusion really is a global topic.
What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve done in the name of work?
I once cycled around South London on a cargo bike collecting and distributing refurbished laptops. Ensuring everyone has access to digital devices is critical, and getting a workout in is always a bonus.
Where do you see telecoms heading?
AI and its associated infrastructure, such as data centres, will be a major factor in the future of telecoms. Beyond this, however, we will start to see a shift in our understanding of telecoms: what do we need to build, and how can we get people to use it? Adoption and inclusion are already key topics within the telecoms space, and I see the value of work in this area only continuing to grow. It’s not as simple as ‘build it and they will come’. We need to work with industry, local government and communities. Telecoms needs to be understood, and support needs to be available to help people utilise the benefits.
What would you like people to know about your work?
My work at FarrPoint doesn’t only cover the technical components of connectivity infrastructure. Even though understanding the technicalities behind technology helps us as consultants, the work involves much more than that. FarrPoint helps clients with policy development, economic modelling, data automation, community engagement and, of course, digital inclusion.
Why is a vibrant, flourishing telecoms ecosystem important for the UK?
Everyone living in the UK needs to have access to good and affordable connectivity. Telecoms infrastructure is a vital component of a modern and thriving economy, and ensures the health and well-being of society.
