Understanding the barriers to digital connectivity

The aim of this commission is to 1) develop our understanding of the barriers to digital connectivity and adoption within Cheshire and Warrington and (2) identify and prioritise interventions to reduce/overcome them.

We consider those barriers could include to varying degrees a lack of broadband, infrastructure and connections, peoples' level of skill, capability and confidence, and issues pertaining to inclusion whether by choice (i.e., lack of motivation to use digital) or forced through factors such as affordability or availability of devices and connections. We seek to understand what is holding back businesses and people from adopting digital. It is our aim to understand the "real" barriers, which may be different for our various communities e.g., residents, businesses, suppliers etc.

We intend to use the outputs from this study to work with our partners to refresh the digital strategies for Cheshire and Warrington to ensure they are effective, compelling, will maximise investment, and deliver for people, businesses and places. We also seek to assess whether existing support (e.g., from BDUK) and planning regulations are effective enablers to improving digital coverage and access. We recognise that resources to deliver improvements will be limited and we seek to identify where and how best to deploy them, i.e., either a clearly defined plan for implementation or set of criteria against which possible projects can be evaluated prioritising those which will make the greatest difference.

The closing date and time for the receipt of submissions and all requested documentation relating to this stage is 17:00 hours (5pm) on 23rd November 2022. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Submissions will only be accepted if they are returned via email to [email protected]

Bidders should not send their completed submissions to/copy in any other email address. Tenderers are advised that it is compulsory to complete and return all of the following documents in the format provided as per the instructions of this ITT. All questions must be answered, where a question does not apply please state "Not applicable". Failure to complete the documents in full and/or provide all documentation will result in a non-compliant tender submission and will mean that your tender is not considered.

1. Form of Tender Declaration (Appendix 1) 2. Pricing Schedule (Appendix 2) 3. Supplier Technical Questions & Answer Sheet (Appendix 3)