At Sky, sport is in our DNA. We know that it’s a vital part of our society, fostering individual growth and a sense of community. Beyond promoting physical and mental wellbeing, it cultivates essential life skills like teamwork, discipline and resilience.
In the UK, 1.7 million households have no mobile or broadband internet at home – risking digital exclusion. For young people, this can mean a lack of access to education and learning tools, social connections, and other essential skills such as online banking. Sports spaces – such as local community sports clubs, stadiums and training centres – have long been at the centre of bringing people and entire communities together. With these spaces being crucial to bridging gaps between people, access to reliable internet is essential in fostering inclusivity, strengthening bonds – ultimately driving both social and economic progress. They serve as a vital tool for individuals to connect, share resources, and participate actively in their communities.
At Sky Business we are committed to helping to advance digital equity, through Sky’s social impact programme Sky Up, which is dedicated to supporting individuals who are the most at risk of digital exclusion. Our Sky Up Hubs aim to create spaces that provide people with access to reliable internet connections, alongside tech equipment and digital training. So far, 70 Hubs have been opened, with over 7,000 devices using free connectivity, powered by Sky Business.
In September 2024, Sky Up launched a flagship Hub at The Brick Community Stadium in Wigan – the first hub established within a stadium. With internet access provided by Sky Business, this Hub serves as a vital community space, where individuals can study, access online resources and essential services and stay connected.
More recently, Sky Business partnered with Wifinity to launch a new connectivity service at Stebonheath Park Stadium in South Wales. This initiative offers free, high-speed public Wi-Fi to fans, and sponsors, significantly enhancing community access to essential online resources. The partnership ensures that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the digital landscape.
By equipping key community spaces with reliable connectivity, Sky Business helps to give people from all walks of life access to resources to help equip them with new skills and stay connected to one another. As communities evolve, initiatives like these serve as a reminder of the importance of digital access and the positive impact it can have on people’s lives, promoting greater participation and collaboration.
For more information go to: https://www.skyup.sky/digital-hubs