Empowering GRT Youth Through Digital Inclusion Initiatives

In today's digitally-driven world, access to technology and the internet is more important than ever. For Gypsy, Traveller, Roma, Romany, Showman and Boater (GTRSB) youth, digital inclusion initiatives can be the key to empowerment, overcoming social exclusion and marginalisation.

Our research project is underway and addresses the issue of how young people from the Gypsy, Traveller, Roma, Romany, Showman and Boater communities use digital resources. The research is focused on the 16 to 24 age group but is expected to gather data that is important for understanding younger age groups too.

The project examines what is termed the 'lived experience' of the digital - that is, how young people use the digital everyday in their lives, its role and what it does or does not do to help them. There are diverse ways that young people may use digital resources but we aim to understand what it is like - for you and your friends - to live today in a digital world.

We are interested in understanding the positives and negatives of using digital technologies like smart phones, computers, laptops and how they are used for to everyday things like shop, book appointments with public services (such as doctors. online services), for education, for social media, connecting with friends and family issue. We are interested in:

• how young people get online and the issues there might be for getting access to the internet and technology. This might be problems with wifi, difficulties getting phones or laptops, perhaps having to share technologies with friends and family.

• What young people use digital technologies for and what they think about that.

• What the benefits and drawbacks are for GTRSB young people in using the digital? Including issues around feeling safe, problems when online as well as opportunities from using digital technologies, being able to connect with friends, meet online and chat, etc.

• But young people do not live in a digital bubble! We are interested in the role of the digital and how it overlaps with the offline, non-digital world. For instance, we have friendships in the real world, how does the digital provide another way of maintaining friendships, keeping up and connecting with friends, sharing useful information between us, etc?

But why is it important to understand young people's experiences of the digital?

1. Quite often, policies are not built around young peoples real experiences, rather they address what people 'think' young people want, do and experience. :( In carrying out research we can better know how young people use the digital and then it provides an understanding of their needs and requirements. Young peoples experiences can be more central to the development of policies and initiatives and services that they really want and need.

2. Not all young people have equal access to digital resources, tools and opportunities. This is unfair and an aspect of what is termed 'inequality'. Marginalised and excluded groups experience inequalities in society, which are often invisible. No one recognises the lack of access and, therefore, nothing gets done about it. Research can help to show there are gaps and issues that need to be addressed.

3. Not all young people have the skills and help to access online resources. Again, this is about inequality and it is vital to identify the skills young people have and the gaps in those skills. This can support better training, education and support.

4. We really do not know about young peoples digital lives. There are lots of assumptions about their experiences online. Gathering young peoples voices and views, through interviews, verbal diaries and other methods, enables us to deliver their views to people who make decisions on resources, or who shape laws and policies, such as local and central government policy makers and politicians.

5. Voluntary, social and educational organisations often have to fight for youth support services, research can help provide evidence that can be used to advocate for better digital inclusion for young people.

   
   

The project, led by a team of dedicated researchers is ready and interested in hearing from you about your experiences. You can email or call us to tell us about your views and ideas. You can get involved in the actual research by being on our youth forum, being interviewed, doing a spoken diary (using spoken messages) or doing our survey. We will compensate you for your time if you become involved in the research - we value your help and knowledge of the digital.

The website serves as a central hub for the project, offering a wealth of information, updates, and ways to get involved. Please look at our section on online resources and the blog. By harnessing the power of the digital space, this research project is not only addressing the challenges faced by GRT youth but also paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive future. With a focus on empowerment, education, and collaboration, the project is making a meaningful impact in the lives of GRT youth and contributing to their overall well-being and success. For those looking to learn more about the project, access valuable resources, or get involved, the website is a treasure trove of information and inspiration. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all, starting with empowering and uplifting the voices of GRT youth.

The research project working towards this goal is making significant strides in mitigating exclusions by bridging the digital divide for GRT youth. By providing access to technology, digital skills training, and opportunities for online participation, the project is empowering GRT youth to thrive in a digital society.

a Digital inclusion initiatives play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and creating pathways for GRT youth to access education, employment, and social services. By equipping them with the necessary digital skills and resources, these initiatives are opening doors to a world of possibilities and helping them realize their full potential. Through the project's website, GRT youth, organizations, stakeholders, and the public can stay updated on research findings, access valuable resources, and connect with the research team. The website serves as a community hub for fostering youth development through digital tools, offering a platform for sharing ideas, experiences, and insights. By embracing digital inclusion initiatives, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where all individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive. Empowering GRT youth through digital literacy not only benefits them as individuals but also enriches the entire community by tapping into their unique talents and perspectives. As we continue to work towards a more digitally inclusive world, let us support initiatives like this research project that are dedicated to empowering GRT youth and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion for all. Together, we can harness the power of technology to create a brighter future for the next generation.