Digital Inclusion and Mental Health – Research Paper

We are pleased to share that our latest peer-reviewed article, “Bridging the Digital Divide in Mental Health”, has been published in Mental Health and Digital Technologies.

The paper evaluates Mind in Bexley’s Digital Hub, a community-led initiative supporting people who experience digital exclusion alongside mental health difficulties, neurodivergence and poverty. As the NHS increasingly moves towards digital-first services, the study highlights the risk of widening health inequalities if relational support is not in place.

Drawing on mixed-methods evaluation data, the research shows that digital exclusion is not simply a technical issue. Participants described anxiety, shame and loss of confidence when navigating online systems. Through trusted community spaces, one-to-one support and peer learning, many reported increased confidence using the NHS App, booking appointments and managing prescriptions.

The study argues that digital inclusion requires patient, place-based and relational approaches to ensure equitable access in the NHS digital era.