Financial Empowerment in Low-Income Communities

The course explores the relationship between digital skills and financial inclusion in low-income areas in the UK. It highlights that active use of banking services, such as contactless payments and online transfers, is significantly influenced by individuals’ digital skills. Even when socio-economic factors are controlled for, digital skills play a crucial role in determining the extent and manner in which financial services are utilized.

In this course you will,

1. Understand the Relationship Between Digital Skills and Financial Inclusion: Participants will be able to explain how digital literacy impacts the use of financial services, particularly in low-income communities, and identify the key factors that link digital skills to financial behaviors.
2. Analyse Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Financial Services Usage: Learners will assess how various socioeconomic and demographic characteristics affect the use of financial services such as online banking, contactless payments, and bank transfers.
3. Evaluate Policy Interventions for Enhancing Financial Inclusion: Participants will learn to evaluate the effectiveness of current policy interventions aimed at increasing financial inclusion and propose new strategies that could address gaps in digital skills and financial access.
4. Develop Strategies to Improve Digital Literacy in Vulnerable Populations: Course attendees will devise actionable strategies to improve digital literacy among vulnerable groups, thereby enhancing their financial inclusion and overall economic participation.
5. Apply Knowledge to Promote Inclusive Financial Practices: Learners will apply their understanding of the relationship between digital literacy and financial usage to promote inclusive financial practices within their organisations or communities, ensuring that financial services are accessible and beneficial to all, especially those at the socioeconomic margins.