Marta Fischer, Digital Access Lead at NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West ICB, joined Dr Mohit Venkataram, Deputy CEO at NELFT, for a compelling session on how community-led initiatives are driving digital transformation in primary care.

Ms Fischer shared insights from the Digital Cafés project—a service designed to build digital confidence by offering practical support with everyday technologies such as the NHS App.

During her presentation she emphasised the importance of creating informal, judgment-free spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can gain skills and independence, and highlighted that true inclusion means offering choice. Ms Fischer explained:

“More importantly, after the sessions, people feel they have a choice. And for most of them, this choice is digital.”

The session also addressed wider issues such as loneliness, online safety, and digital inclusion. Ms Fischer reiterated the importance of offering flexibility, not pressure:

“We’re not trying to have 100% of population using digital... we’re aiming to have 75%... [and leave] space for those who still will require face-to-face.”

Reflecting on the impact, Dr Venkataram shared how the project goes beyond digital skills, helping people feel more empowered and capable in a changing digital world.

“That pride, that hope to say I’m actually quite intelligent… all these people who are struggling to use technology are accountants, doctors, teachers, nurses who have retired…,” he said.

The discussion highlighted how patient-led digital solutions can support greater inclusion and wellbeing, helping people gain confidence, stay connected, and feel more in control of their care.

You can watch the full webinar on YouTube here

Register now for the next Future of Primary Care webinar here