News and blogs
News, thoughts and updates about the work happening across the UK to improve the digital capability and confidence of the nation.
DfE publishes update to Essential Digital Skills Standards
The Essential Digital Skills Standards have been updated to embed AI across everyday skills. Read FutureDotNow’s policy briefing and DfE FAQ.
Skills England annual report strengthens the case for essential digital skills
The Skills England Annual Skills Report 2026 highlights growing skills shortages and the accelerating impact of AI, reinforcing the urgent need for essential digital skills across the workforce.
New report: digital and AI essentials boost employability
2026 Delivery Plan – Sprint 2 mid-point connect
Join the mid-point meeting for Sprint 2 of the 2026 delivery plan to close the workforce digital skills gap. Find out about the progress being made across the Enabler and Pathway projects – including how you can get involved.
2026 Delivery Plan – Sprint 2 kick-off call
Join the FutureDotNow Delivery Plan community for the kick‑off of Sprint 2, where we will set direction, confirm priorities, and bring together partners working to close the workforce digital skills gap.
2026 Workforce Digital Skills Summit
The third annual Workforce Digital Skills Summit will take place on Wednesday 22 April 2026 at the Guildhall in the City of London.
Our members in action
Here, our coalition members tell us about the progress they’re making in improving the digital capability and confidence of their workforce and communities, and what they’re learning along the way.
Travis Perkins plc: A ‘pay it forward’ approach with people at the heart
Travis Perkins plc is using apprentices as digital champions, encouraging digital learning for colleague’s personal and professional lives.
Cornwall Council: Removing ‘digital’ from digital training
Cornwall Council flipped digital training on
its head to focus on job-specific needs and
frustrations, with digital as the hidden solution.
HMRC: Removing barriers to learning
HMRC used on-demand learning, reserved learning time, and short flexible sessions to make it easier for staff to take up digital training.
