FIBRUS has unveiled details of a new £55,000 fund to help people in rural areas in Downpatrick and Castlewellan to stay connected online.
The telecommunications and broadband provider is working in partnership with the Community Foundation to award grants of up £1,000 to groups and organisations in rural locations over the next year to help them access digital technology and purchase equipment.
The fund has a particular focus on supporting grassroots organisations that support older people and young people aged 18 and under.
It has been confirmed that the community fund will operate in four phases in tandem with Fibrus’ programme to build new hyperfast full fibre broadband, with phase two including the Castlewellan, Downpatrick, Dromore and Dromara areas. Fund applications for these areas is now open.
Mr Nicholas McCrickard — manager of the Co Down Rural Community Network — said the organisation very much welcomes the launch of the fund.
“Access to the world of digital services is no longer a luxury,” he continued. “It is becoming a necessity and people in rural areas are particularly vulnerable and with the ongoing closure of banks and other rural services, people very often have no option but to use digital devices.
“We hope local groups in the Down area will make applications on behalf of older and younger people. We urge groups to think about how they can help rural residents and the Network is available to help with applications if required.”
Community fund development manager Marcus Cooper highlighted the importance of keeping rural communities connected.
“Coronavirus has highlighted the need for communities to remain connected and many groups and charities working with those most vulnerable in our communities are telling us that a strong and sustainable broadband connection in rural communities is vitally important,” he continued.
“The pandemic has massively increased our use of technology and it now plays a vital role in our daily lives. Our learnings from Covid highlight digital poverty as a major concern in rural areas, negatively impacting isolation and loneliness, especially among young people and older people.”
Mr Cooper said the Fibrus Community Fund will support people in rural areas and begin to address the digital divide.
Fibrus managing director David Armstrong said his company was committed to supporting the communities in which it operates.
He continued: “By investing £55,000 through our new Fibrus Community Fund, we will be able to give back to some of the organisations doing wonderful work to enhance and support our thriving towns and villages across Northern Ireland.
“We’re looking for projects specifically aimed at young people who need greater access to technology or connectivity, as well as initiatives that combat digital exclusion amongst the elderly or those more vulnerable in our society.”
Mr Armstrong added: “We hope as many local groups and community organisations get involved and look forward to hearing more about people’s good work.”
Groups or organisations who want to find out if they are eligible for the fund are asked to visit www.communityfoundationni.org for more information.