Digital for Good: How Sunderland’s Smart City innovations are changing lives
In an increasingly digital world, cities have a powerful opportunity – andresponsibility – to use technology not just for progress, but for good.
Sunderland is leading by example. Recently recognised with the Digital Leaders People’s Choice Award and shortlisted in the Social Transformation category, Sunderland’s Smart City programme is demonstrating how technology and innovation can create meaningful change in communities and improve lives.
At the heart of Sunderland’s transformation is a mission to tackle digital exclusion, ensuring that every resident – regardless of age, background or income – can benefit from the opportunities the digital world offers.
Through the city’s award-winning Digital Inclusion Programme, thousands of people have been empowered with the tools, skills and connectivity needed to thrive.
From building 30 Digital Health Hubs across the city delivering over 10,000m² of free public Wi-Fi – used over 60,000 times a month – this programme is bridging the digital divide and creating access for all.
Many residents who were previously excluded from online services – whether through lack of devices, connectivity or confidence – are now connected, supported and empowered. Over 1,500 people have been upskilled through training and community-led digital sessions, raising confidence and opening opportunities for residents in a digital era.
“Digital Hubs have been a massive part of our smart city strategy – to absolutely bring that connectivity and those digital services out to local communities.”
Liz St Louis, director of smart cities at Sunderland City Council.
Over 1,000 donated devices have been refurbished and redistributed to those who need them most, directly addressing the issue of access to digital equipment, alongside reducing e-waste and its related emissions.
Connectivity underscores Sunderland’s smart city journey, it’s the bedrock for social, economic and environmental good. Our ambition is to create inclusive communities – using technology as a catalyst for sustainable change.
Sunderland has introduced technology-enabled care across the city, from sensors supporting safe and effective hospital discharge, to monitoring hydration and falls, supporting over 5,500 people to live safely and independently at home to date.
Meanwhile, innovative programmes like the 5G Innovation Region’s (5GIR) funded projects have driven sustainability and economic growth, while improving safety and operational efficiency.
By prioritising inclusivity, sustainability and innovation, Sunderland’s smart city achievements have fostered stronger communities, improved quality of life and inspired other cities to follow their lead.
Sunderland’s Digital Health Hubs have been instrumental in bringing the opportunity to go online into the heart of local communities. The Hubs have addressed health and digital inequalities, supporting over 11,000 vulnerable people to date.
Over 284 volunteers have been recruited to foster community participation and boost digital confidence. This has created valuable volunteering opportunities and a pathway into education and employment.
The city’s launch of a ‘Links for Life’ platform has provided a digital platform for residents and professionals to ‘join the dots’ between communities and services, with over 300 local organisations registered across all sectors.
The digital transformation across Sunderland is a model that integrates Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values at every level, by:
And it’s not just the city council leading this change – Tech Mates and corporate supporters are helping neighbours and communities gain confidence online. A true citywide movement for digital empowerment is underway.
Sunderland’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. The city has become a beacon of best practice for other towns and cities looking to tackle digital exclusion and build smarter, more resilient communities, and was named the UK’s smartest city earlier this year by The Times.
“Technology evolves all the time and I think it is important that people keep up with that, and are supported to do that in a safe way that works for them.
To be able to use technology, to be able to improve people’s lives and to have the community space like we have with the Hubs is super important.”
Claire Venners, director delivery UK & Ireland at Boldyn Networks,
By using data and analytics to identify areas of need, and collaborating across sectors, Sunderland is delivering smarter solutions where they matter most. Its work with the North East Combined Authority on Minimum Digital Living Standards could soon set the bar for digital inclusion efforts across the UK.
Sunderland’s story shows that true smart city success isn’t just about the tech itself – it’s about the people it helps, the lives it changes and the communities it brings together.
Through bold leadership, strong partnerships and a commitment to leaving no one and nowhere behind, Sunderland is proving that digital transformation, when done right, is a powerful force for good.
As the recent Digital Leaders Awards celebrate those embedding positive impact into everything they do, Sunderland continues to lead from the front – putting people at the heart of innovation. Follow Sunderland’s smart city journey here.
