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During March and April, the Digital Connectivity Forum has been busy holding various events and workshops, as well as releasing exciting new initiatives. Following the Government’s release of the 10-year Infrastructure Strategy, the DCF held a workshop bringing together the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, HM Treasury and its industry members to discuss the strategy, including long-term digital infrastructure ambitions, the cross-sector coordination of infrastructure delivery and how the strategy can ensure certainty for the sector to encourage investment and growth.  

In addition, the DCF’s Climate & Sustainability Working Group launched a net zero initiative which saw ten of the largest players from across the UK connectivity sector (representing over £50 billion in annual turnover) sign a letter encouraging suppliers to adopt voluntary minimum standards as part of their efforts to reach climate goals. The announcement marks a significant step forward in the increasing commitment and focus from UK providers to decarbonise their products and services. 

In other net zero activity, the DCF held an interactive workshop with Capgemini focusing on ‘writing the story of net zero’, and how we can reach and accelerate our respective and combined net zero targets. The day involved companies from across the UK connectivity space, and focused on identifying the challenges, beating back the monsters, writing the heroes and plotting the path to a happy ever after as attendees recontextualised the road to net zero, bringing out key actions and ideas for the next pages in the book of sustainability.  

Identified areas included: 

• Engaging our leaders 
• Education for everyone 
• Every job is a green job 
• Support for supply chains 
• A circular future 
• Making sustainability part of business DNA 
• Knowing the impacts of products throughout their life cycle 

As we move through April into May, and summer begins to approach, the Digital Connectivity Forum continues to have a busy itinerary of activity planned. We look forward to updating you in future editions of the newsletter.

Government News

In an update to the 5G Innovation Regions programme, which aims to drive innovative applications powered by 5G from proof of concept to widespread adoption, there were numerous March updates to existing projects including the extension and increased funding to Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Oxfordshire County Council and Glasgow City Council. The additional funding and timing extension will mean the continuation of exploration into 5G powered progress across areas including connected sensors for mould, damp and heating, air source heat pump integration and sensor enhanced operational efficiency among other use cases and applications.  

On 21 May the Government launched a consultation for plans to make digital standards a requirement for all schools, alongside a £45 million investment to improve connectivity. As the world continues to digitise, children and students face a rapidly advancing educational landscape, as well as future working environment. The skills of today need to be future proofed for tomorrow, and this consultation and spending from the Government is part of its focus on breaking down the links between children’s background and their future success. 

On 27 March, Sir Chris Bryant, Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms, gave a speech at the Connected Futures Festival in which he reemphasised the importance of connectivity and its intrinsic link to future growth. Sir Chris also noted a Government shift in terminology, in that the term ‘future telecoms’ will be being retired and replaced with ‘advanced connectivity technologies’, in acknowledgement that the solutions once described as ‘future telecoms’ are now a present and usable reality. 

In addition to recognising the importance of digital connectivity, Sir Chris also noted Government’s commitment to ensuring it was both available and accessible to UK residents, noting that 1.6 million people in the UK still live largely offline and reaffirming the Government’s ambition to have gigabit-capable broadband in every home and business, alongside commitments announced in the Digital Inclusion Action Plan to make sure people have the devices and skills needed to access this digitally revolutionised society.  On 1 April Government released a statement detailing the confirmed and proposed measures forming the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill which will be laid before Parliament later in the year. The measures include key updates to the UK’s cyber security framework, including building resilience across critical infrastructure, greater enforcement powers for regulators, and expansion of regulation across data centres. 

Regulatory News

Following the success of the regulatory framework introduced in 2021, Ofcom published the Telecoms Access Review – its new proposals on regulation of the wholesale broadband markets from 2026-2031 to boost competition and investment in full-fibre connections. Ofcom highlights that its proposals intend to promote competition and investment in high quality gigabit-capable networks. They add that, while huge strides have been made by industry to roll out full-fibre networks, further investment is needed to deliver high-quality services to all parts of the UK.  

On 28 March, Ofcom published updates to its plan of work for 2025/26 alongside outlines of how they will deliver against the plans over the next three years. The plans outlined a continued approach to fostering growth, competition and sustainable outcomes for consumers and the economy. 

Outlined priorities included: 

• “Internet and post we can rely on – protecting the interests of consumers and enable everyone to access fast and reliable networks and service; 
• Media we trust and value – ensuring audiences across the UK can continue to access a variety of broadcast and on-demand media and are protected against harmful content; 
• We live a safer life online –ensuring providers comply with their obligations to protect users, while continuing to implement the regime; and 
• Enabling wireless in the UK economy – ensuring spectrum remains an effective enabler for wireless communications and supporting growth across the economy.” 

On 2 April, Ofcom published new research exploring internet adoption and the effects of digital disadvantage. The report explores the effects on people who don’t have access to, or don’t use the internet at home, as well as the lived experience of people who may face unique challenges whilst using online services. The research explored how the digital divide has changed over the course of the past years as many people’s interaction with the internet has increased.  On the 22 April, Ofcom published new rules targeted at making the UK a world leading space in the protection of its residents from the malicious use of mobile networks. The announcement included the closure of technical loopholes that pose a risk to mobile users’ privacy and security. This includes the banning of leasing phone numbers known as ‘Global Titles’, which are used by criminals to intercept and divert calls and messages to obtain private information held by mobile networks. 

Industry News

On 22 April, which is also Earth Day, Virgin Media O2 announced that they have successfully cut Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 56% against their 2020 baseline. The announcement means that VMO2 are on course to meet their near-term Science Based Target goal of reducing operational (scope 1 & 2) emissions by 90% by 2030, which is another indication of the sector’s commitment to reaching net zero goals as well as a great step in VMO2’s overall ambition to achieve net zero emissions across its products, operations and supply chain by the end of 2040, which would see them achieving this goal 10 years ahead of the overarching UK net zero goal. 

On 15 April, Hughes Network Systems, a European managed network connectivity provider, announced a partnership with Eutelstat in order to utilise the OneWeb network to offer enhanced connectivity across Europe by integrating OneWeb LEO technology into its broadband portfolio. 

The Independent Networks Cooperative Association (INCA) released the 2025 update to their annual PointTopic report looking at the impact of alternative network provided gigabit connectivity across the UK. The study showed that coverage expanded by 27% in 2024 to over 16.4 million premises, with a predicted growth rate of reaching 18.6m in 2025. 

As part of a new Digital Connectivity Forum (DCF) initiative, some of the UK’s largest broadband and mobile connectivity players have signed a joint letter encouraging their suppliers to adopt voluntary minimum standards as part of their efforts to reach climate goals.

The letter was signed by 10 companies from across the UK connectivity sector, a move which represents in aggregate approximately £50bn in annual turnover.

The Digital Connectivity Forum (the primary advisory group to the UK Government on digital connectivity) and its members are committed and determined to play an active and ambitious role in tackling carbon emissions, with the DCF’s State of the Industry Report finding that 75% of its surveyed members have already validated Science Based Targets[1].

Supplier engagement is critical to advancing these goals. The report found that Purchased Goods and Services represented the largest source of Scope 3 emissions. As a result, a number of members of the DCF’s Climate and Sustainability Working Group have signed a joint letter to their suppliers that urges the adoption of voluntary minimum standards to reduce emissions in a simple and pragmatic way.

The identified minimum targets are included below, and the letter encourages suppliers to engage with their own supply chain to reduce carbon emissions and pursue circular principles.

1. Publicly disclose, on an annual basis, Scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions data [2], with third-party verification for Scopes 1 & 2.
2. Publicly disclose a science-based carbon reduction target[3]. 
3. Establish goals to improve the energy efficiency, reduce the embodied emissions, and increase circularity of the products provided, for example through higher reuse and refurbishment rates and reduced waste.
4. Where feasible, to implement Life Cycle Assessments or Product Carbon Footprints in accordance with ISO, or other, standards for relevant goods they supply.

The Digital Connectivity Forum and its members hope that this marks a first step in the increase of critical supply chain engagement to reduce emissions across the sector. You can read the letter in full here.

Signatories to the letter are free to act as they wish in their individual dealings with suppliers and may encourage their suppliers to use more stringent standards than the minimum standards set out in the letter.

Each Signatory to the letter shall independently decide the application of these standards. Suppliers will be free to determine how they will meet these standards.

In recognition of the challenges that many smaller suppliers are facing, the DCF has published guidance for SMEs on how to reduce carbon emissions.

[1] Source: DCF State of the Industry report. Individual members will have a range of emissions reduction targets, net zero goals and carbon neutrality targets.  

[2] At a minimum should include scopes 1, 2 and all relevant categories 1-8 of scope 3.

[3] For the avoidance of doubt this does not mandate a validated Science Based Targets, merely that the targets are aligned with the Science Based Targets Initiative standard or a partner organisation of the Race to Zero  

Signatory Companies

Alex Mather, Head of the Digital Connectivity Forum

“The DCF is delighted to launch this initiative as part of our ongoing work to reduce the climate impact of the digital connectivity sector. By encouraging suppliers to adopt these practical and achievable standards, we are fostering collaboration across the supply chain to deliver meaningful climate action while supporting the UK’s world-leading connectivity goals.”

Will Ennett, Chair of the DCF Climate & Sustainability Working Group

“I want to thank the 10 companies, who provide an essential service to most households and businesses in the UK, for collaborating and effecting change. In a telecoms industry first, we are coming together to address the carbon footprint of our supply chains, the largest source of our respective emissions.”

On 11th December, the Digital Connectivity Forum held the formal launch of its new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Working Group.  The launch was held at the House of Commons, kindly hosted by Chi Onwurah MP (Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee).

The Working Group has already received significant interest from senior leadership across the industry, including support from Ofcom with Dame Melanie Dawes as Patron and its joint chairs Belinda Fawcett, Director of Property & Estates and General Counsel at Cornerstone and Michael Salter-Church MBE, Director of External Affairs, Policy and Sustainability at Openreach. 

Dame Melanie Dawes gave a keynote speech at the group’s launch, explaining that organisations can only succeed if they represent and understand the communities they serve across the country. She focused particularly on the importance of gender balance and overcoming historical perceptions and industry bias.

STEM subjects, including engineering, have traditionally attracted male candidates. This means that progress will not only involve reshaping the image of telecoms but also overcoming historical perceptions of a traditionally male dominated field.

Dame Melanie also noted that we now stand at a turning point, a sentiment that was echoed by Jordan Wood from Opinium. There is a real sense that industry can come together to tackle this image problem. This can be done through strategic conversations, targeted outreach and thorough reviews of individual needs as part of recruitment and retention. To do this, companies may need to work together to develop those skills and talent.

Ofcom is already leading great work in this area, including its Ofcom Women in Tech Pledge. The DCF Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Working Group will work closely with this initiative in 2025.

The evening also featured a keynote address from Chi Onwurah MP, who remarked on the history of Parliament itself being indicative of social challenges and a male dominated, or male exclusive, field. This look at history reminds us of where we have been and where we hope to go in diversifying opportunities for everyone.The Working Group’s formation follows a 2023 Opinium report, which was commissioned by the Digital Connectivity Forum at the request of the then Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). It presented interesting findings in its assessment of diversity across UK telecoms.

While the report showcased progress that has been made by the sector in recent years, it also highlighted areas where further progress needs to be made. Including a continued lack of gender diversity across senior roles.

Jordan Wood, Research Director at Opinium, provided remarks outlining the 2023 report’s findings. Jordan shared that many organisations have made substantial efforts to promote inclusivity, with examples such as the introduction of unconscious bias training, flexible working arrangements, and the celebration of diverse cultural backgrounds. Also referenced was the increase in mental health initiatives and wellness programmes, which are gaining momentum and demonstrating a holistic commitment to employee well-being.

However, it was also clear that challenges persist. With research showing that only one in three employees are aware that their company has an active diversity and inclusion culture, it is evident that buy in and promotion of these programmes are not where they could be. Research also showed that gender diversity in telecoms significantly declines as employees move into senior positions; women are well-represented (at nearly 50%) in entry-level positions, but hold only a third of director- and board-level roles

Discrimination was also noted as a concern. Opinium research suggested 30% of employees had reported instances of discrimination, and that this number was even higher among women, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. Those with long term disabilities are also less represented across the telecoms sector, compared to the wider UK workforce.

To address the gaps identified in the report, the new Working Group will focus on diversity, equity and inclusion across all protected characteristics and other important areas, including socio-economic background.  It will begin work in 2025 and will champion the delivery of action orientated plans to drive progress for industry and individuals.

The Group will focus on four pillars of delivery and engagement:

Listening to understand challenges and plan solutions.

Delivering pragmatic and action orientated plans to drive progress for industry and individuals;

Collaborating with existing industry organisations and groups;

Focusing on broad diversity and inclusion, including all protected characteristics and other important areas including socioeconomic background;

The evening concluded with a panel, which was chaired by Chair of the Digital Connectivity Forum, Stephanie Liston and featured industry experts:

• Nihal Newman, Director of Network Security, Ofcom
• Tim Creswick, CEO, Vorboss
• Belinda Fawcett, Director of Property & Estates and General Counsel, Cornerstone
• Michael Salter-Church MBE, Director of External Affairs, Policy, and Sustainability, Openreach
• Catherine Page OBE, Deputy Director of Future Telecoms, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology

Key areas raised by panellists and audience Q&A included:

Does telecoms have an image problem? – Despite being an essential component of our everyday lives, telecoms infrastructure is often misunderstood or overlooked. This misunderstanding extends to the workforce.

How do we ensure that telecoms is viewed as a dynamic, exciting and future thinking space for everyone?

Recruitment and Retention – The image of telecoms is a vital part of ensuring that the sector has a stable pipeline of top talent. However, ensuring recruited talent remains within the industry is critical to long term success. It is also a clear indicator of inclusivity success. Low staff retention rates may be a sign that there is a work culture issue driving people away from a business or a sector.

How do we ensure that we create environments that encourage recruited talent to stay?

Social mobility as part of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion picture – Telecoms, and the wider connectivity sector, has an impressive potential to succeed in diversity, equity and inclusion. Social mobility and socio-economic background are not protected characteristics but are a critical part of the wider DEI picture. Statistics shared at the launch event panel suggested that only 9% of tech staff come from working class backgrounds, a number which is lower than law, banking, and general society.

How do we ensure that telecoms careers are accessible to everyone?

The importance of language – The language we use matters. Whether this is how we speak about roles and responsibilities, how we communicate within the workplace to ensure that others are not unintentionally ostracised or made uncomfortable, or how we talk about diversity, equity and inclusion itself. Language and approach will be critical. At the launch panel, work conducted by Openreach on the language used in job adverts was shared. Findings from this indicated that the language and criteria phrasing was inadvertently off-putting, particularly to female candidates. This work showed that, while female candidates were interested in the prospect of a career in telecoms, this was not translating to applications.

How do we talk about telecoms, and about DEI, in a way that promotes accessibility for everyone?

Equity and the importance of the individual – The anchor point of inclusion is equity. Historically we have become socialised with the concept of equality. However, whilst equality was a necessary starting point, we must now begin to engage with and work towards the concept of equity. Placing the needs of the individual at the forefront, and creating environments where people feel empowered to raise those needs safely and confidently.

How do we create teams and environments that not only champion diversity but empower individuals to speak up where they have needs. And do this with the confidence that those needs will be listened to fairly and understood?

Broadening focus – Research has shown that the telecoms sector is lagging in disability representation. It also shows that speaking up is not easy or common when it comes to needs or accommodations. The panel shared the example of the many colour-blind engineers in telecoms, who were unseen until the culture of embracing the individual empowered individuals to ask for the help they need. This accommodation benefits the individual and it benefits the business. There was a call at the panel to aim the focus less around a disability label and more about how to accommodate specific needs – shifting the focus from diversity metrics to inclusion.

What can be done to make sure the industry is delivering inclusivity for everyone? Including disability, neurodivergence and other areas that may require targeted understanding.

As autumn begins to blend into winter, and we begin to turn our thoughts towards the festive season, it has remained a characteristically busy period for industry, Government and regulators across the telecoms space. 

In a period that saw a Halloween eve Autumn Budget, indications that an industry shakeup mega merger could get the green light , and the US elections, there is a lot to digest ahead of the Christmas break. The Digital Connectivity Forum has been hard at work, considering what these new changes mean for the industry, as well as championing new and ongoing work across a variety of other important sector specific challenges. 

During October, the Digital Connectivity Forum held two important workshops, focusing on local authorities as connectivity enablers and the resilience of networks. With topics ranging from how to improve communication and engagement, planning barriers, climate resilience, accidental damage, deliberate physical attack and future threats such as supply chain resilience, there was an abundance of fascinating conversation as we align on ways to drive industry progress and unlock the societal value of quality connectivity for everyone. 

The workshops both involved key stakeholders across industry, Government and Ofcom, as well as other workshop specific attendees, including local authorities and relevant trade associations. 

In addition to our focus on local authority engagement and resilience, work has been ongoing for the launch of our upcoming Diversity & Inclusion Working Group, which will be formally launched on 11 December. 

Diversity & Inclusion remains an important topic in telecoms. Following the release of our 2023 report, ‘Diversity in Telecoms’, which was commissioned at the request of DCMS, we saw that the report’s assessment of diversity across UK telecoms highlighted areas that need support. In addition to this, it highlighted data gaps and areas that need greater understanding. 

In response to this, we decided to launch a working group that is dedicated to tackling inclusion across all protected characteristics, as well as those which are not protected, and yet form a critical part of the diversity & inclusion picture, such as socio-economic background. 

Ensuring true, and universally embedded, inclusion across the sector is something the Digital Connectivity Forum is passionate about, and we cannot wait to get to work on these valuable and important areas. 

We are delighted to announce that Dame Melanie Dawes, CEO of Ofcom will be joining as the group’s patron, and we are delighted to work with her and the group members to bring you future updates on our activity as we raise the profile of diversity whilst building practical routes to inclusion success. 

Government News

The release of the Autumn Budget brought with it announcements that will impact telecoms and wider industries. It confirmed that the new Government will be investing over £500 million across 2025 to 2026 as part of the delivery of the ongoing Project Gigabit and Shared Rural Network programmes. This marked a continued commitment to ensuring connectivity to remote and underserved parts of the UK, and the upholding of the target for full gigabit broadband coverage by 2030. 

Rises to employer national insurance contributions will be a change that is felt not only across telecoms but wider business, as employers adapt to these significant changes to their tax burden. It remains to be seen how this will impact future spending and investment. 

On 23 October, Government released an update to its final stage impact assessment of the Online Safety Act, which was first published in 2022. The update comes as Ofcom recently released an update on its work to implement the Online Safety Act, including timeline updates on phased rollout between 2024 and 2026 and that, as of December 2024, services will need to act to comply with their duties as outlined by the Online Safety Act.  

The Government update reflects several major policy changes made during passage of the Online Safety Bill. 

Finally, on the 11 November, Government published an update to the projects selected for the Rural Connectivity Accelerator programme. The programme seeks to identify projects that will enhance overall understanding of the connectivity needs of businesses across rural and very hard to reach parts of the UK. 

To do this, pilot projects will consider various challenges and solutions, including the exploration of existing barriers to deployment and adoption, as well as connectivity solutions, such as alternative methods of delivery, including broadband, satellite and wireless. 

As the UK shifts to a more online consumption pattern, Government has published a report looking at the ‘Future of TV distribution’. The report examines areas including the changing habits of UK viewers, as well as their platform choices and how a changing society and digital shift is changing the way we consume our media. It looks to predict how these changes will look by 2040, including estimating that, based on current market dynamics, by this time 71% will rely exclusively on internet delivery for their TV. This increasing reliance on internet for TV consumption will in turn have effects on demand and the importance of quality connectivity availability and reliability. 

Regulatory News

Ofcom has announced its final draft auction regulations for a plan to auction off millimetre wave (mmW) radio spectrum frequency across the 26GHz and 40GHz bands. This spectrum will be used by mobile operators in the delivery of faster 5G services. 

The auction process had originally been delayed as Ofcom waited for the result of the proposed merger between Vodafone and Three. It will see the awarding of several 15-year, fixed term licenses for high density areas across 68 UK major towns and cities, alongside some smaller low-density allocations within the cities through the Shared Access licensing framework. 

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), has provided an indication that the merger of Vodafone and Three may be given the green light with the publication of its Remedies Working Paper.  

Following initial competition concerns identified by the CMA in September, the paper sets out the CMA’s provisional views on the subsequent remedy package proposed by Vodafone and Three.  

The commitments included: 

• Agreeing to make their network coverage commitments legally binding with this being overseen and enforced by Ofcom 

• Agreeing to sell spectrum to Virgin Media O2 upon approval 

• Maintain tariffs at £10 or below for two years from the completion for social tariff customers 

• Providing reference offers that encourages MVNOs to access additional network capacity 

The provisional indication from the CMA comes ahead of the 7 December deadline and suggests that the CMA believes that the proposed commitments “could solve competition concerns identified in September and allow the merger to go ahead.”. 

However, the Paper included several short-term protections proposed ‘to ensure that retail consumers and mobile virtual network operators can continue to secure good deals. These included proposals that would require Vodafone and Three to: 

• Deliver their joint network plan as part of a legal obligation overseen by Ofcom and the CMA. 

•  Commit to retain certain existing mobile tariffs and data plans for at least 3 years,  

• Commit to pre-agreed prices and contract terms to ensure that Mobile Virtual Network Operators can obtain competitive wholesale deals. 

The deadline for a final decision remains set at the 7 December. 

As the December deadline approaches for the implementation of the Online Safety Act, Ofcom issued an update on the 26 October, highlighting its progress since the Online Safety Act became law. 

The update reminded companies of their obligation to comply from December 2024, as well as outlining further dates that form part of the phasic rollout of the Act. 

In addition, Ofcom published its first consultation covering fee setting and penalty regime as part of the enforcement of the Online Safety Act. The Act requires that Ofcom’s operating costs are covered by providers of the regulated services through a fee’s regime. It further stipulates that calculations of fees should be based on providers qualifying worldwide revenue. 

The consultation is open until January 9, 2025. 

Finally, Ofcom announced the appointment of Tamara Ingram OBE to their Board as Deputy Chair, alongside Lord Allan of Hallam who will join as a Non-Executive Director. Both Tamara and Allan have been appointed on four-year terms and will provide strategic direction to Ofcom and its executive. 

Industry News

EE announced in October the 16 new locations who will be receiving a major 5G standalone upgrade. The locations announced will be completed and live by the end of the year and will bring EE’s 5G standalone network to more than 30 major towns and cities across the UK. Areas with 5G Standalone will experience a 95% outdoor coverage rate, improving communications and opportunities across these locations. 

In November, VMO2 announced the launch of a new Small Business Partnerships initiative which brings together Virgin StartUp, GoDaddy, and egg. The Small Business Partnership aims to deliver exclusive offers to small business customers and drive SME growth across the UK by equipping them with the connectivity and technology they need to succeed and scale. 

Finally, BT seems to be moving closer toward selling their Global division, which is responsible for selling internet, phone and other business solutions to multinational corporate clients. Whilst industry analysts have suggested potential buyers include Verizon, Amazon and Microsoft, it could also remain that BT’s global division is apportioned and sold more geographically, with some reports suggesting companies such as Viatel and Telecom Italia have expressed an interest in geographically specific areas across Ireland and Italy. 

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A new Digital Connectivity Forum report has found that almost all the major players within the UK telecoms sector have set net zero targets, with three quarters of firms having validated science-based targets.

The report highlights that the anchor point for acting on sustainability is the setting of credible carbon reduction goals. These should involve clear targets and measurable outcomes, which can be used to report progress.

The Digital Connectivity Forum’s State of the Industry Report was based on survey results from 12 major telecoms companies, including network operators, internet service providers and vendors.

The report highlights a positive and continued commitment to the net zero journey, with 11 out of 12 having set some form of net zero target, and 75% having validated science-based targets. This level of target setting is both a positive signal of the continued commitment to net zero and a sign that the telecoms sector is recognising and responding to climate concerns.

The report highlighted interesting areas such as the potential for certain drivers to decrease overall emissions, including fleet transition, renewable energy switching, fluorinated gas reduction and the use of data analytics to focus sustainability strategy.

Exploring levers to industry wide reductions, policy and regulatory change, grid decarbonisation, industry change, subsidy and incentives, standardisation and green skills adoption were highlighted as key contributors towards overall industry reductions.

As new challenges emerge, such as the increasing need for climate resilience and tackling the remaining barriers for industry wide adoption of decarbonisation levers; cooperation and engagement across industry, government and other stakeholders will be a powerful tool for overall success.

Other key findings included:

• 70% identified renewable energy transition as the largest driver for operational emissions decrease to date.
• 5 out of 11 identified fleet transition as a potential large-scale driver for scope 1 & 2 reductions
• 50% have fleet transition targets
• 90% identified green skills gaps as a barrier

The report’s publication follows the second annual UK Telecoms Sustainability Roundtable, which was held in June this year by the Digital Connectivity Forum, Ofcom and Accenture. The event followed on from last year’s initial kick off session, where the UK’s largest connectivity providers came together to sign a statement of commitment, in which they agreed to work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from the telecoms supply chain.

At this year’s roundtable, which was attended by twenty-four sustainability leaders representing sixteen companies from across the telecoms industry, eight priority areas were identified:

• Creating a net zero roadmap for the telecoms sector
• Supplier Engagement within competition law parameters to tackle scope 3 emissions
• Engaging senior leaders within telecoms firms on critical climate challenges and action
• Understanding and improving climate resilience in a changing world
• Common Training Standards to increase and align sustainability understanding across roles and departments
• Understanding the barriers to Electric Vehicle adoption and creating a policy environment to encourage fleet switching
• Life Cycle Assessment Data improvement and understanding
• Grid Decarbonisation

These areas have been evaluated by the DCF climate group members and will continue to be taken forward in discussion as to how to drive progress in the most impactful way, and in keeping with competition law rules.

Will Ennett, Chair of the Digital Connectivity Forum Climate & Sustainability Work Group said:

The members of the Digital Connectivity Forum Climate and Sustainability Working Group have recognised the urgency of climate change. As we face a world that is rapidly changing, many companies are already taking impressive action to curb their environmental impact and make a difference. I want to take this opportunity to thank all members for their enthusiastic collaboration, and to the Digital Connectivity Forum team for their tremendous dedication in creating this report.

Ed Leighton, Director of Strategy & Policy at Ofcom said:

It was great to bring together telecoms providers for a second successive year, to reaffirm their shared commitment to reduce carbon emissions. I was impressed by the energy and ideas, with some clear areas of focus coming out of this year’s roundtable – including more engagement at senior leadership level and creating a net zero roadmap for the telecoms sector.

On Tuesday 19^th March, the Digital Connectivity Forum launched its latest report, ‘Advanced Connectivity Take-Up and Use Cases’, produced by leading TMT Management consultancy, Analysys Mason. 

The Report

The report considers drivers, barriers, and potential applications of advanced broadband technologies, as well as potential policy interventions and support for the enablement of advanced connectivity for all. 

A key recommendation was the implementation of an information campaign centred around a new cross-industry independent website. By offering clear, accessible explanations of the various broadband technologies and their capabilities to consumers, the aim is to provide clarity to consumers, allowing them to understand and choose the right service for their needs. 

Alongside take-up and barriers the report considers use cases for 5GSA and FTTP connectivity. Considering critical sectors such as agriculture, transport, healthcare, and manufacturing. These use cases cover a broad range of areas within these topics, highlighting the potential for transformative impact across society. These include: 

• virtual coupling of trains 
• connected ambulances 
• advanced agricultural techniques like crop phenotyping 

To realise these promising use cases, the report advocates for increased trialling of advanced connectivity solutions, alongside proactive government promotion and feasibility assessments aimed at addressing regulatory, operational, and safety challenges. 

You can read the full reports by clicking here for take up and here for use cases. 

The Launch

Our launch commenced with opening comments from Head of the DCF, Alex Mather before handing over to Principal Consultant with Analysys Mason, Andrew Daly.  

Andrew gave two presentations over the course of the afternoon, looking at both the take up and the use case elements. These included results from the 22 surveyed FTTP providers on:  

• Network coverage and take-up 
• drivers and success stories 
• barriers and policy initiatives 

As well as contextual information such as whether they are urban/rural in focus, a wholesale/retail operator, as well as their scale. 

The survey found that the top three drivers listed by operators were: 

• Download speed 
• Price 
• Reliability 

The main barriers identified by respondents included a perception that their current broadband is sufficient, as well as low awareness of the capability of FTTP. Consumers’ existing broadband contracts were also cited by operators as a barrier. However, it should be noted that contracts are a feature of the UK market which help with revenue assurance and investment recovery. 

Andrew highlighted that the survey found that operators had expressed support for information campaigns as the most effective policy option to encourage FTTP take-up. 

He then outlined the report’s key recommendation: an information campaign built around a new cross-industry independent website. He added that this website could incorporate  

• non-jargon explanations covering the full range of broadband technologies (including benefits and capabilities) 
• use of visuals or graphics where possible to encourage better understanding (for example how the availability of networks will change in the future) 
• Information on how to switch providers (for example the OTS regime) 
• Information on digital skills training and digital champions. 

Andrew then moved onto the second part of the report on use cases, that utilise the capabilities of advanced connectivity networks. Highlighting the benefits that these could provide. 

These covered both 5G standalone (5G SA) and Fibre to the Premises (FTTP). The use cases that were identified were noted for their clear benefits, short to medium term time scale and lack of clear alternative approach. An additional focus was that of having a clear commercial and/or policy rationale underpinning them. 

In total six use cases were identified for inclusion within the report: 

• Remote health monitoring 
• Connected ambulances 
• Advanced connectivity in railways 
• Electric vehicle charging 
• Remote monitoring of industrial equipment 
• Crop phenotyping 

Examples of benefits within these included wearables and in-home sensors to provide patient monitoring, automatic uplink of healthcare visitor data, remote video consultation allowing for less mobile, or more remote, patients better access to prompt, quality care. 

The report estimates a potential 5% social care saving (representative of £890 million).  

Other highlighted uses included vibration, electrical and other types of sensor monitoring within machinery to increase efficiency in manufacturing. This sensor data could be utilised to detect patterns which indicate wear, as well as mitigating possible future failure.  

This advance knowledge could support preventative maintenance, minimising downtime. Network reliability was noted as a key element of changing industrial processes, meaning that the reliability presented by FTTP is of critical importance within this transformation. 

Following Andrew’s presentations, the DCF were delighted to welcome two panels of expert voices to the stage to discuss each half of the report’s findings in detail. The panels were chaired by DCF chair, Stephanie Liston and featured: 

• Jesam Eyong, Head of Public Sector Engagement, Barrier Busting Task Force, DSIT 
• Richard Feasey, Inquiry Chair, Competition and Markets Authority 
• James King, Policy Principal, Ofcom 
• Bronagh McCloskey, Head of Public Affairs and Corporate Sustainable Responsibility, TalkTalk 

Discussing Advanced Connectivity Take-Up and covering their thoughts on the identified drivers and barriers towards adoption and how providers and industry can come together to remove or improve these; as well as their thoughts on the overall call for a cross industry website/information campaign.  

Joining the use cases panel we were very happy to welcome: 

• Andrew Daly, Principal Consultant, Analysys Mason 
• Patricia Dooley, Head of UK Strategy and Public Affairs, Ericsson 
• Jonathan Freeman, Strategic Growth and Regulatory Director, Cellnex UK 
• Chris Parkinson, Senior Government Affairs Manager, Vodafone 

The audience heard the panel’s views on how far away they feel we are from seeing these use cases translated into reality, as well as what they see as the key enabler in bringing these use cases to fruition. The panel noted the relevance of the report’s findings as we approach almost one year on from the publication of the Government’s Wireless Infrastructure Strategy. 

The event concluded with closing remarks from DCF chair, Stephanie Liston before networking drinks. 

We hope you enjoyed the launch, if you were not able to join us but have any questions regarding the report, please contact us.

In a new report released today by the Digital Connectivity Forum (DCF), titled ‘Advanced Connectivity Take-Up and Use Cases’, crucial insights into the adoption of advanced connectivity in the UK have been unveiled. As the leading advisory body to the UK Government on connectivity, DCF has partnered with Analysys Mason, a prominent TMT consultancy, to delve into the drivers, barriers, and potential applications of advanced broadband technologies. 

The report underscores the importance of fostering widespread adoption of FTTP broadband and leveraging the potential of 5G Standalone (5GSA) technology across various sectors of the economy. 

Through comprehensive analysis and collaboration with 21 surveyed fibre operators, key motivations and obstacles to adoption of FTTP have been identified. Key findings reveal that consumers prioritise speed, price, and reliability when considering advanced connectivity options, reflecting the increasing indispensability of connectivity in modern society. However, a significant barrier lies in the lack of awareness regarding the benefits of FTTP and a perceived absence of necessity among consumers. 

Addressing these challenges head-on, the report recommends the implementation of an information campaign centred around a new cross-industry independent website. This platform will serve as a point of clarity, offering accessible explanations of various broadband technologies and their capabilities in layman’s terms, thereby empowering end-users to make informed decisions. 

Moreover, the report showcases compelling use cases for 5GSA and FTTP connectivity in critical sectors such as agriculture, transport, healthcare, and manufacturing. From virtual coupling of trains to connected ambulances and advanced agricultural techniques like crop phenotyping, the potential for transformative impact is evident. 

To realise these promising use cases, the report advocates for increased trialling of advanced connectivity solutions, alongside proactive government promotion and feasibility assessments aimed at addressing regulatory, operational, and safety challenges. By implementing these recommendations, the UK can unlock the full potential of advanced connectivity, ushering in a new era of prosperity and innovation for the economy and society alike. 

Alex Mather, Head of the Digital Connectivity Forum said:

“As the rollout of gigabit-capable fixed connectivity accelerates, and 5G standalone rollout gets underway, the importance of ensuring that all parts of the UK society and economy understand and benefit from these transformational forms of connectivity has never been greater. 

”The report shows better understanding and awareness of advanced broadband technologies is essential in enabling the nation to reap the full benefits of these forms of connectivity. 

“We look forward to working with industry as well as government and regulatory stakeholders, to bring these uses into reality.” 

Andrew Daly, Principal Consultant at Analysys Mason, said: 

“Advanced connectivity networks have huge potential to support new use cases, applications and functions that can bring economic social and sustainability benefits to many aspects of everyday lives in the UK. Take-up on these networks is critical to realising these benefits, and greater information for end-users, along with targeted actions for specific industry verticals, are key next steps.” 

The report is available here:

• Advanced Connectivity: FTTP take-up research 
• Advanced Connectivity Use Cases: Why the UK needs to use advanced connectivity 

Connectivity is an integral part of modern daily life. Since the release of the World Wide Web (WWW) in 1991 (the internet’s official birthday is generally considered to be January 1983) digital connectivity has seen a staggering increase in global speed, leaving an almost unrecognisable landscape in its wake.  

Between 1991 and 2022 the world witnessed changes from 14kbit/s (0.0145Mbps) to 100mbit/s (12.5MBps) across worldwide average, and global speed trends are still growing. It is estimated by up to 20% per year. 

In 2024, this has left some consumers asking, ‘why do I need more?’, ‘what is the point of super advanced connectivity?’. This may well be true. It presents valid questions to consider when the recommended speed for streaming TV is 1.5Mbps for regular streaming, or 5-8Mbps for HD video. 

So, with less of us facing the buffering wheel as we watch our favourite programmes, what are the wider implications and uses of high-speed ultra-low latency connectivity, and why should we care? 

The answers are far reaching and surprising. The power of these use cases poses an exciting ability to transform societies; fuelling economies and driving progress. 

The Digital Connectivity Forum had the opportunity to visit BT’s research and development centre at Adastral Park earlier this month as part of the work on an upcoming project focusing on FTTP take up and use cases for 5G standalone and FTTP. As part of this we were guided through their technology showcase rooms. These covered areas such as: 

• Defence 
• Security 
• Health 
• Retail 
• Home 
• Industry  
• and Smart World and Cities

These showed the real-life benefits of high-speed ultra-low latency connectivity. But what are some examples? 

Home 

Aside from the obvious benefits of greater levels of homeworking having wide reaching effects, ranging from increased access to quality talent for companies, greater work/life balance for employees and decreased commuting emissions. Advanced connectivity presents further opportunities for technology in the home.  

These could range from home monitoring for patients using connected medical devices, connected home technology that allows for greater remote control of the home, or helping to safeguard elderly or vulnerable users via integrated AI home systems. Allowing them to retain independence whilst providing peace of mind to their loved ones. 

Health

Advanced Connectivity has already proven itself as a powerful tool for the equitable availability of quality healthcare access. In addition to this, connected devices and sensors make it possible to monitor patients at home in real time. This critical information could be transformative in treating those with chronic illnesses. Improving both quality of treatment and resource efficiency. 

Digitisation and improved effectiveness to the flow of data will also be instrumental in improving resource use and maximising efficiency. 

Smart Cities

Smart cities run on data, and this can be facilitated with high powered, fast connectivity. The benefits of this could result in the improvement of quality of life and delivery of services for its residents.  

When devices connect, they serve as both a user and a provider of critical information. This could be used to monitor elements such as footfall (how busy is somewhere right now, helping people make informed travel choices), parking availability (live updates minimising wasted journeys and providing critical information on whether current infrastructure is suitable to support city needs) and traffic levels and flow (this could build information regarding congestion, emissions, and air quality). 

The DCF’s upcoming report: Advanced Connectivity take-up and use cases

The Digital Connectivity Forum’s report will investigate take up levels of FTTP, as well as 5G standalone and FTTP’s use in a flourishing, future thinking society. The project will feature analysis of FTTP deployment, including key barriers and drivers of adoption, as well as the consideration of potential policy interventions. 

In addition to this it will look at 5G Standalone and FTTP use cases, conducting an overview of a small select number of use cases to demonstrate how 5GSA and FTTP connectivity could be utilised in specific sectors of the economy, including manufacturing and agriculture. 

The report will launch in March this year and form part of the DCF’s exciting plan of 2024 activity.  

As part of the workstream surrounding common data standards, the Digital Connectivity Forum’s Climate & Sustainability Work Group (CSWG) has conducted a survey amongst members regarding the current state of sustainability within the telecoms industry. The results, published as part of techUK’s Climate Action at COP28 Campaign Week 2023, reveal interesting themes as well as clear long term goals.

In addition to conducting this survey, the CSWG will also be endorsing the JAC 10 best practice principles which were released as part of their Achieving Net Zero in the Telecoms Industry: Tackling Supply Chain Emissions report.

The group has chosen to endorse the JAC 10-point principles, which give suppliers to the UK telecoms industry aspirational goals as well as being aligned with other industry work on decarbonisation in the hope that this can be the beginning of dialogue between industry and suppliers towards sector wide decarbonisation.

In addition to their work around common data standards, the DCF Climate and Sustainability Working Group also acknowledges that many smaller suppliers may struggle with climate reporting, and has issued guidance earlier this month to help SMEs get started on net zero action.

You can read the 10 principles below as well as accessing the full report using the link above.

1. Understand your Carbon Footprint – know how much of your emissions arise from your direct
   operations, energy usage and your wider value chain so that you can focus your action in the right
   areas
2. Have a carbon reduction plan with a clear Net Zero Goal and interim targets with board level
   ownership
3. Align your carbon reduction planning to the SBTi standard so that you have a valid science-based
   carbon reduction target across Scope 1, 2, and 3
4. Where your supply chain emissions are a significant part of your carbon footprint, develop a supply
   chain hot spot analysis so that you know what areas of your supply chain to prioritise engagement
   with, to drive emissions reduction
5. Maintain LCAs (Life Cycle Assessments) for the products and services you offer so that you can
   identify and address the major opportunities to decarbonise the products you offer. Maintaining
   LCAs is important as your operator customers may ask for LCAs when assessing emissions arising
   from their purchasing of your products
6. Measure and report your emissions reduction activities following recognised standards like the
   GHG protocol, and ensure you have independent external assurance and verification of your
   methodology and calculations
7. Use green energy in line with its availability – this is the simplest thing any business can do to reduce
   its emissions
8. Have goals to improve the power efficiency of the products you offer and your operations, with
   incentives for employees who drive the change
9. Understand and support the Carbon reduction goals of your customers
10. Engage with your supply chain to incentivise and help them to reduce their carbon emissions by
    requiring them to address points 1 through to 10

As part of the workstream surrounding common data standards, the Digital Connectivity Forum’s Climate & Sustainability Work Group (CSWG) has conducted a survey amongst members regarding the current state of sustainability within the telecoms industry. The results, published as part of techUK’s Climate Action at COP28 Campaign Week 2023, reveal interesting themes as well as clear long term goals.

In addition to conducting this survey, the CSWG will also be endorsing the JAC 10 best practice principles which were released as part of their Achieving Net Zero in the Telecoms Industry: Tackling Supply Chain Emissions report.

The group has chosen to endorse the JAC 10-point principles, which give suppliers to the UK telecoms industry aspirational goals as well as being aligned with other industry work on decarbonisation in the hope that this can be the beginning of dialogue between industry and suppliers towards sector wide decarbonisation.

In addition to their work around common data standards, the DCF Climate and Sustainability Working Group also acknowledges that many smaller suppliers may struggle with climate reporting, and has issued guidance earlier this month to help SMEs get started on net zero action.

You can read the 10 principles below as well as accessing the full report using the link above.

1. Understand your Carbon Footprint – know how much of your emissions arise from your direct
   operations, energy usage and your wider value chain so that you can focus your action in the right
   areas
2. Have a carbon reduction plan with a clear Net Zero Goal and interim targets with board level
   ownership
3. Align your carbon reduction planning to the SBTi standard so that you have a valid science-based
   carbon reduction target across Scope 1, 2, and 3
4. Where your supply chain emissions are a significant part of your carbon footprint, develop a supply
   chain hot spot analysis so that you know what areas of your supply chain to prioritise engagement
   with, to drive emissions reduction
5. Maintain LCAs (Life Cycle Assessments) for the products and services you offer so that you can
   identify and address the major opportunities to decarbonise the products you offer. Maintaining
   LCAs is important as your operator customers may ask for LCAs when assessing emissions arising
   from their purchasing of your products
6. Measure and report your emissions reduction activities following recognised standards like the
   GHG protocol, and ensure you have independent external assurance and verification of your
   methodology and calculations
7. Use green energy in line with its availability – this is the simplest thing any business can do to reduce
   its emissions
8. Have goals to improve the power efficiency of the products you offer and your operations, with
   incentives for employees who drive the change
9. Understand and support the Carbon reduction goals of your customers
10. Engage with your supply chain to incentivise and help them to reduce their carbon emissions by
    requiring them to address points 1 through to 10

The Digital Connectivity Forum is delighted today to be launching our latest piece of work: ‘Net Zero: Guidance for SMEs in the telecoms sector’.

With telecoms in the UK connecting 97% of homes and being used by 44.6 million customers daily; connectivity has become essential to our lives, whether that involves remote working, socialising or consuming content.

SMEs currently represent 99% of UK businesses, forming a vast proportion of the UK economy and will play a key role achieving the UK’s 2050 net zero goals.

As a result of this pivotal space occupied by telecoms and the importance of SMEs, the DCF’s Climate & Sustainability Work Group, formed earlier this year, selected SME engagement as a focus point for 2023.

As a result, and in collaboration both with its members and numerous SMEs from across the telecoms industry, they have produced the Net Zero: Guidance for SMEs in the telecoms sector document in the hope of driving positivity and progress across the industry.

This guidance, aimed specifically at Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the telecoms sector, includes easy to follow guides on how to calculate carbon footprint, as well as how to set a credible carbon reduction goal.

In addition to this it provides practical solutions for SMEs looking to reduce their emissions and make a positive impact on the environment, helping to create a sustainable future for telecoms.

Other key information includes where to access funding, offering valuable insights into resources and real-life examples of SMEs turning climate action into business opportunities. With this step by step information and coordinated links to valuable resources, the guidance supports SMEs taking aim at a more sustainable future.

A study last year of UK Small Businesses found that 91% felt overwhelmed and did not know where to start when it came to tackling emissions and creating a robust and sustainable approach to their business. With this in mind the Digital Connectivity Forum’s Climate & Sustainability Work Group targeted SME Engagement as one of their key 2023 workstreams.

As a result of this I am pleased to be launching this Telco SME Net Zero Guidance in collaboration with the DCF’s Work Group and its members. With SMEs representing 99% of UK businesses, they form the engine of the UK economy and will be vital in achieving the UK’s 2050 net zero goals.

I would like to thank the SMEs, industry members and stakeholders that have contributed their time and effort to producing this guidance, which we hope will go on to empower change. As always, I am delighted by the enthusiasm and support for the DCF’s working group on climate issues and look forward to continuing the mission of a more sustainable telecoms industry.

Will Ennett, Head of Sustainability, TalkTalk and chair of the Climate & Sustainability Work Group

The DCF is delighted to launch our new climate guidance for small and medium-sized telecoms enterprises. The UK telecoms sector is a thriving and competitive one, including hundreds of smaller participants. It is therefore essential that all parts of the industry commit to taking action to decarbonize to ensure that the maximum potential impact is realized

Alex Mather, Head of the DCF

The Digital Connectivity Forum is delighted to announce the launch event of their Climate Guidance for SME’s in the telco industry.

Earlier this year, the Digital Connectivity Forum launched their Climate & Sustainability Work Group (CSWG). This group provides a platform for the facilitation of UK Telecoms collaboration, enabling the acceleration of individual and industry path(s) towards net zero.

As part of this ongoing work the CSWG have created a climate guidance aimed at SME’s in the telco industry, recognising that small and medium sized enterprises represent 99% of British business and will play a critical role in carbon footprint reduction for the sector.

The guidance reviews ways in which SME’s can design and implement their carbon reductions targets as well as detailing the benefits of doing so and signposting towards helpful resources and information on funding and incentives.

We are delighted to be launching this guidance on 14 November in Central London, with a hybrid joining option also available. The event will begin with a short presentation, followed by a panel of expert voices discussing key points of the guidance as well as questions surrounding net zero and SME engagement. The afternoon will conclude with networking drinks.

If you would like to join us for the event you can learn more and sign up here.

On 18^th July, the Digital Connectivity Forum (DCF) launched its latest report: Local Authorities as Digital Connectivity Enablers. The report launch took place in London at the offices of techUK and was opened by the DCF Chair, Stephanie Liston before Alex Mather, Head of the DCF, gave some opening remarks. This was then followed by a presentation by Steve Smith, Principal Consultant at FarrPoint. 

At a time when much has been done to reduce barriers to the deployment of high-speed fixed and mobile connectivity, both Government and infrastructure companies continue to strive towards the ambitious coverage targets for 2025-2030. Despite many legislative changes in recent years, which has contributed to over 70% of homes across the UK having access to gigabit capable broadband, there remain many challenges at local level; including poor communication and collaboration between local authorities and industry, issues around planning and a lack of consistency of approach across the UK. This discrepancy is leading to prominent levels of variation between local authority areas regarding rollout and access to high-speed connectivity. 

The report, conducted by leading digital consultancy, FarrPoint, identifies and discusses these challenges and is the product of interviews with 31 organisations who are involved in the provision of digital connectivity. These included local authorities, fixed and mobile network operators, central and devolved governments, and other regulatory and policy stakeholders. 

From this, four main themes arose. These were communication & engagement, planning, street & roadworks and local authorities as landlords and site providers. In total the report makes 27 recommendations that, if adopted across the board could address many of the remaining obstacles that local authorities are experiencing with the deployment of digital connectivity. 

Communication and Engagement 

Conclusions around communication & engagement included a clear indication of the necessity for a Digital Champion installed across all local authorities as well as the importance of a clear local digital strategy. It was also acknowledged that ubiquitous adoption of Digital Champions is not without challenge as many local authorities continue to operate with high workloads and highly constrained funding. 

Other key conclusions included a need for improved education within local authorities about digital infrastructure, in tandem with education for the public on the wider benefits that this infrastructure and connectivity brings to help mitigate public concerns. Communication between local authorities and industry remains a key area for improvement, which has the potential to offer real value in terms of improving the overall process of rollout. It was also identified that improvements could be made in terms of communication between different parts of central government as well as clearly defining the stakeholder roles and responsibility to facilitate direct and open conversation. 

The thirteen recommendations which focused on engagement & communication centred around:  

• Supporting the role of Digital Champions across all local authorities 
• Considering how communication with local authorities could be enhanced​ 
• Developing clear guidance on how all parties could improve communications​ 
• Increasing digital infrastructure deployment knowledge within local authorities to aid​ decision making​ 
• Ensuring local policies and plans are aligned with national objectives 

Planning 

Conclusions within planning centred around improving consistency across nations and regions, with a wider consideration of local benefits in the planning process, alongside better feedback for rejected applications. It was noted that planning guidance should, and must, keep pace with technology developments and that updated, and increasingly aligned planning guidance would help accelerate deployment. It was also understood that planning resources are constrained and communication with the public could also help to ease the process, for example a better understanding of the product and not only its direct consumer benefits but wider societal ones could help bridge the gap between public, local authority and industry. 

Six recommendations within the subject of planning were made. These were to: 

• Urgently review and update planning regulations in Northern Ireland ​ 
• Improve consistency of pre-planning processes​ 
• Develop best practice guidance on planning applications​ 
• Review and update the Town & Country Planning (General Permitted Development Scotland) Act​ 
• Undertake analysis to identify trends in planning application rejections to inform future guidance and/or policy​ 

Street & Roadworks 

When considering street & roadworks the key conclusion was that variation in noticing and permitting schemes is the largest barrier to deployment with a lack of standards as an area that can cause issues. Within this it was also remarked that regulations could better reflect digital infrastructure requirements as well as improved coordination between both Highways and Operators. There was a general feeling that the adoption of flexible permitting should be increased alongside an improvement in the sharing of infrastructure. 

Six recommendations were made in this area. They included: 

• Promote adoption of flexible permits to local authorities, including future trials​ 
• Improve consistency of approach to managing street works across the UK​ 
• Increase early engagement with local authorities during the deployment planning process​ 
• Instigate improvement programmes with subcontractors to increase confidence within local authorities​ 
• Investigate the potential benefits within local authorities of adopting a flexible permits approach 

Local Authorities as Landlords & Site Providers 

Finally, when considering local authorities as landlords & site providers key conclusions were that the use of public assets is varied, with the role of agents as intermediaries requiring consideration and potential reform. Overall, there is a willingness for public assets to be used for deployment and conversations should take place in a constructive and open way to maximise the opportunity for this. 

There were two recommendations in this area which looked at: 

• Ensuring accurate asset data is available to interested parties, and that the focus is on the wider benefits resulting from digital connectivity rather than revenue generation​ 
• Facilitating access to public sector assets (land, rooftops, and street furniture) and utilising standard templates and guidance for negotiation of agreements​ 

Panel discussion 

A panel of expert speakers, providing perspectives from across industry, central government, and local government, then followed Steve’s presentation. Speakers included chair of the panel and of the DCF, Stephanie Liston; Jesam Eyong, DSIT; Belinda Fawcett, Cornerstone; Councillor Mark Hawthorne MBE, LGA; Jo Swarbrick, CityFibre and Steve Smith, FarrPoint. 

The panel began with Jesam Eyong, Head of Public Sector Engagement, Barrier Busting Taskforce, DSIT, offering DSIT’s perspective on the report. He outlined that the Department commends the overall tone and positioning of the report in setting out local authorities as enablers of digital connectivity; acknowledging that no local authorities set out to block progress. He added that this framing had laid good foundations for constructive, positive cooperation between local authorities and industry. In addition to this, it was discussed that it is interesting, and positive, to note that recommendations span across all stakeholders within the process, rather than pinning the task of change upon one specific area.  

Jesam remarked that it is encouraging that the report holds nothing which shocks DSIT, meaning that it contains items which are ready to be enacted, if not already in progress or in planning (such as ongoing work into flexi-permitting trials). 

Overall DSIT welcomed the report and encourages those with questions to contact them. They also encourage that local authorities speak to their highways teams to learn more about flexi permits. 

Jesam also highlighted that government is planning a series of upcoming webinars broadly in line with the four themes highlighted in the report and encourages those with interest to enquire about these. 

Belinda Fawcett, Director of Property and Estates and General Counsel, Cornerstone then gave her thoughts on the report. She commented that herself and Cornerstone welcome the positive nature of the report and its highlighting of the importance of local authorities within connectivity – recognising them as key players within rollout. Recognition was also given to the resistance that can be caused through lack of understanding, which lends particular pertinence to the report’s calls for increased communication and education between all involved parties. As part of this increased communication there is an opportunity for better engagement to work towards balancing the positive impact of infrastructure against the visual drawback it can have within areas – often a point of contention between providers and residents. 

The call for Digital Champions was welcomed, with interest in the suggestion of industry digital champions or single points of contact to complement local authority counter parts. Overall, it was felt that the report emphasises the importance of cohesion and coordination between industry and local authorities to work together to solve issues in a direct and non-legal way. 

Councillor Mark Hawthorne MBE, Leader of Gloucestershire County Council & LGA Digital Connectivity Spokesperson, next gave his views from a local government perspective. He welcomed the report and noted, alongside DSIT, that there was nothing particularly new or surprising within it. Councillor Hawthorne noted that the key recommendation within the report was digital champions, with a separate note that funding would need to be provided for these digital champions to enable stretched local authorities to be able to deliver these positions across the country.  

It was noted that all four of the key themes involve different departments and improvements across all areas can be built through understanding and communication. To generate this cohesion, local authorities must be bought back into the involvement of processes, enabling them to view digital infrastructure as an investment rather than a generator of community and industry complaints. 

Jo Swarbrick, Head of Public Affairs at CityFibre, gave a fixed operator’s perspective to the panel. Jo welcomed the report and stated that he was encouraged by the positive, rather than adversarial, stance it had taken. In particular, CityFibre advocated the role of Digital Champions, agreeing the value they hold for a provider when tasked with the remit and responsibility to join up the different areas involved with rollout. 

Alongside Digital Champions there was focus on the various planning points raised, with comment that slow planning is delaying rollout and better communication between local authorities and industry will be vital in assisting this issue, alongside potential government intervention to improve planning application ease. 

CityFibre highlighted the value that flexi permits represent to providers, citing permitting as a substantial barrier. If widely adopted, flexi permits could create a better flow of continuous rollout as well as smoothing day to day contact between operators, highways, and local authorities.  

Finally, Steve Smith, Principal Consultant at FarrPoint gave his closing remarks to the panel, advocating for a non-adversarial stance between industry and local authority and highlighting the necessity for improvement to keep pace across the whole of the UK, rather than some areas being left behind. To achieve this a coordinated and considered approach will be required. Steve highlighted that more talking is the most positive first step and that from that the remaining issues can begin to be addressed. Steve concluded that he, and FarrPoint, are hopeful that many of the recommendations can be considered and hopefully applied to create a realisation of the vital value presented by enhanced digital connectivity for all. 

Stephanie Liston then offered closing remarks, noting the positivity that members of the panel, all representing different parts of the complex ecosystem of digital rollout, were aligned and willing to work together – paving the way for enactment of reform and the driving of progress. 

Q&A 

The panel was then opened to audience Q&A with questions focusing on varying topics such as digital champions, infrastructure sharing, funding, and industry collaboration. 

Is there an opportunity for the Digital Champion brief to be broadened to include helping local communities (particularly businesses) to understand what it is they need to buy and how to fully benefit from the infrastructure provided. 

• Digital Champions are holistic in their approach, tasked with considering the wider picture, including how to achieve the benefit of the connectivity for which they advocate. 
• There has been feedback showing that those local authorities who have Digital Champions are working well and this support is happening.  
• There has been a clear indication that people do need guidance and operators are aware of this, with many (including CityFibre) calling on Ofcom to release such guidance (e.g., What constitutes full fibre). 
• Whilst Digital Champions can be a catalyst to digital rollout, they can also be part of embedding digital adoption across the wider local authority and educating on why consumers should care about higher speeds; highlighting the societal and individual benefit that that connectivity brings. 

Is industry doing enough to have local authority champions within their own structures? 

• The report has identified how important local authorities are to connectivity, alongside how industry needs to provide support for this e.g., who to speak to and where to go.  
• The focus can now be placed on either side, allowing for a more balanced view. There is clear value in having an industry champion counterpart. 

Are there examples of successful industry collaboration and if not, what can be done to make this happen?

• yes; an area in the south of England has had collaboration between fixed line operators sharing plans with each other.  
• If there is a will to work together, there can be results achieved together.  
• The National Connectivity Alliance is trying hard to foster communication in this area and came from the access to land workshops convened by what was then DCMS (Department for Culture, Media, and Sport) and is now being run by industry itself. 

What is the real scope for collaboration and infrastructure sharing given the current level of overbuild? 

• DSIT recognises that they are aware of the issues presented by overbuild, which include removal and damage of infrastructure. 
• Change in this area will inevitably take time, as well as a commitment from the operators involved to conduct conversations with honesty and an open and less accusatory tone. 
• The Local Government Association (LGA) is trying to understand what needs to be done to have this conversation and considers that often delay is not an issue of will, but of way. The challenge is recognised and there is a solution, but that solution will require recognition of the complexity of the issue. 
• Overbuild is already embedded in the connectivity structure.  
• The positive position the UK finds itself in with connectivity is largely in place due the competitive business environment that it has.  
• There is agreement that collaboration and infrastructure sharing is positive 
• Local authorities should also share their own assets (such as roads, roof tops), and work towards asset sharing to providers as well as sharing between providers. 

How can industry work with local authorities who are short on resource, such as those who want to be part of the process but cannot or are prohibited from doing so due to financial constraints?

•  Ideally there would be central government funding for Digital Champions across all local authorities, with a particular call that every local authority does need funding for this. 
• For local authorities to widely adopt Digital Champions they must first see the value in having them (including the wider connectivity, societal and income value).  
• This is partially incumbent on the local authorities to be involved in and advocate for this rather than entirely central government owned. 
• DSIT highlighted that government very clearly understands the value of digital champions (and would have them embedded everywhere in an ideal world) – however, until decisions are made in central government to fund digital champions across the UK, we must be pragmatic in our approach. It is possible to focus the structure to accommodate these changes, however it takes a lot of patience and work, and Government acknowledges that this balancing is not at all easy. 

The report launch concluded with thanks and closing comments from the DCF, and report launch chair, Stephanie Liston. 

The Digital Connectivity Forum would like to take the time to thank all those involved in the report, including those who were interviewed, the panellists, FarrPoint and those who attended the launch event. An insightful report has been produced which presents value to a wide range of stakeholders and will hopefully lead the way to a more cohesive and connected connectivity future. 

The UK’s rollout of gigabit-capable broadband and 5G connectivity would benefit from improvements in communication, collaboration and consistency between local authorities and the telecoms industry, according to a new report published today.

The latest report for the Digital Connectivity Forum (DCF), the leading advisory body to the UK Government on connectivity, by the consultancy FarrPoint, looks at the role of local authorities as enablers of digital connectivity.

The report was the output of interviews with 31 organisations involved in the provision of digital connectivity, including local authorities, fixed and mobile network operators, central and devolved governments, and other regulatory and policy stakeholders.

The analysis finds that improvement is needed in the areas of communication, collaboration and consistency. Contributions to the report indicated that more can be done to improve communication on all sides and that inconsistency is seen across local authorities in terms of their approach to the deployment of digital infrastructure.

The report makes a number of recommendations for policy makers and the industry itself across four areas: communications and engagement; planning; street and roadworks; and local authorities as landlords and site providers. Key recommendations include that:

• Government should consider requiring local authorities to have a digital champion, with the role both better defined and funded;
• Local authorities should embrace flexible permitting and that those who are able to should take part in further flexi-permit trials;
• Government should review planning processes in relation to pre-planning guidance and analyse fees being applied by planning authorities to ensure that digital infrastructure deployment is not held back;
• Government should undertake a communications programme targeted at local authorities across the UK to ensure that they better understand the full benefits of 5G and gigabit-capable broadband;
• Local authorities and telecoms operators should work closely together to better educate planning authorities on the technical requirements of 5G and gigabit-capable broadband infrastructure.

The report’s recommendations, if fully implemented, would address many of the remaining obstacles local authorities are experiencing with the deployment of digital connectivity.

The full report can be read here.

Alex Mather, Head of the Digital Connectivity Forum said: 

“Much positive work has taken place, particularly in the terms of legislative changes, over recent years to reduce barriers to the deployment of high-speed fixed and mobile connectivity. This has resulted in real benefits to UK economy and society, with over 70% of homes across the UK having access to gigabit-capable broadband.

“However, as this report highlights, challenges remain at a local level especially regarding poor communications and collaboration between local authorities and network builders. This is resulting in high levels of variation between local authority areas in terms of their rollout of both fixed and mobile digital infrastructure.”

Steve Smith, Principal Consultant at FarrPoint, said:

“During this study, we spoke to over 26 different local authorities and related organisations from all parts of the UK who are all active in supporting the rollout of digital infrastructure. While conducting these interviews, we noted a number of great digital initiatives and also identified where there are still a few improvements to be made.

“As part of the study recommendations, we highlight that local authorities need to be empowered through more consistent, centralised policies and legislation in order to help them accelerate the connectivity infrastructure rollout and champion innovation. Communication between local authorities, central government and telecom operators is the key component to success, so we would like to see industry and local government openly sharing best practices and simply talking to each other more.”

The Digital Connectivity Forum is delighted to announce the launch of a pledge for collaborative action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from the supply chain. The pledge, which is signed by many big mobile and broadband ISPs marks a positive step in an important journey, as the industry strives towards net zero.

The commitment follows a roundtable meeting in May, convened by Ofcom and Accenture, where twelve telecoms and network infrastructure companies were invited to discuss and identify priority areas where they could work together to reduce GHG emissions in the supply chain.

The participants have committed to work via the Digital Connectivity Forum’s Climate & Sustainability Work Group, to building industry consensus on these areas to drive action, ahead of COP28, while ensuring compliance with Competition Law.

The DCF Climate & Sustainability Work Group (CSWG) provides a platform for the facilitation of UK Telecoms collaboration, enabling the acceleration of individual and industry path(s) towards net zero through collaboration, evidence sourcing and providing expert recommendations to Government, regulators and the industry.

The group will meet a further four times before the end of COP28 and will collaborate with other telecoms groupings and bodies that are committed to tackling climate change.

We commend the collaborative commitment of these companies in reducing the climate impact of the telecoms sector. By understanding and addressing the complexities of the industry, we can pave the way for industry-wide transformation. The enthusiasm and support for the DCF’s climate working group are inspiring, and we look forward to their proposals ahead of COP28.

Alex Mather, Head of the Digital Connectivity Forum

The Digital Connectivity Forum welcomes the signatories’ commitment to work together to reduce GHG emissions and support the sector and nation’s net zero ambitions. Individual companies within the telecoms sector have long-established commitments at a company level, however the UK telecoms industry is a complex and interlinked system. It is therefore essential that the sector collaborates and works together to address these challenges and achieves industry-wide transformation. I am delighted by the enthusiasm and support for the DCF’s working group on climate issues, and look forward to the work that it will undertake.

Will Ennett, Chair of the Digital Connectivity Forum Climate & Sustainability Work Group & Head of Sustainability, TalkTalk

We welcome the commitment of these companies to work together to reduce the climate impact of the sector. Better understanding the supply chain is as critical for sustainability as it is for security, so this is the right focus. We look forward to seeing further specific proposals ahead of COP 28

Ed Leighton, Director of Strategy & Policy at Ofcom

Companies have a leading role in scaling the ambition of a more sustainable future into a reality. The commitment we saw from all participants at May’s roundtable to work together and identify priority areas for collaboration will accelerate the innovative solutions and sustainability services needed for real action. We will continue to support the members of the Digital Connectivity Forum with insights on embedding sustainability as a core objective in the communications industry.

Toby Siddall, Sustainability Lead, Accenture UK & Ireland

You can learn more about the statement of commitment and those companies who are signed up to it here. If you would like to learn more about the Digital Connectivity Forum, including our work in the Climate & Sustainability Work Group, contact us today!