Frequently Asked Questions by Funders
Questions we get asked regularly by commissioners, referral partners, and participants. If your question isn't here, email hello@wearedigitalgum.com
About the Programmes
Q: What age group do you work with?
A: All programmes are open to adults aged 19 and over. We do not deliver provision for those under 19. The 19-24 age group — particularly young adults who are NEET — is a key cohort the employability programme is well suited to
Q: What is the difference between your two programmes?
A: The Employability Programme is for adults who are unemployed and want to rebuild confidence and digital skills to get back to work. Participants work in small teams on a real project for a local charity. The Small Business Programme is for self-employed people and business starters who need digital marketing skills to grow their businesses. Both are 5 weeks, in-person, twice weekly, maximum 12 participants.
Q: Do participants need any prior digital skills?
A: No. Both programmes are designed for complete beginners.
Q: Is there a qualification at the end?
A: There is no external qualification. Participants complete the programme and receive a completion document. The focus is on skills, confidence, and outcomes — not certificates. If a funding framework requires an accredited qualification, we should discuss whether Digital Gum is the right fit before commissioning.
Q: How many participants can attend?
A: A maximum of 12 per cohort. This is not negotiable — it is the mechanism by which confidence is built. Larger cohorts produce worse outcomes.
Delivery
Q: Where do you deliver?
A: We are based in North Devon and deliver at commissioner venues across South West England (North Devon, Mid Devon, Somerset, Wiltshire, Dorset, Bristol, Gloucestershire) and South East England (Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire).
Q: Do you deliver online?
A: No. We removed online delivery from all programmes. In-person delivery is not a preference — it is the mechanism by which confidence is built. Online delivery consistently produced worse employment and business outcomes.
Q: Can the programme be delivered at our venue?
A: Yes. We deliver at commissioner venues. The venue needs to be accessible, have adequate space for up to 12 participants and facilitators, and be available for the full 5-week programme.
Commissioning
Q: How do I commission a Digital Gum programme?
A: Email hello@wearedigitalgum.com. We will arrange an initial conversation to understand your context, then provide a written proposal. Full details at /commission-a-digital-skills-programme
Q: How quickly can a programme be set up?
A: We recommend 6 to 12 weeks from contract to first session. We can work to shorter timescales if needed — contact us to discuss.
Q: Do you work with Jobcentre Plus?
A: Yes. We work alongside Jobcentre Plus referral pathways and can integrate with Work Coach referrals in your commissioning area.
Q: What does it cost?
A: We scope each commission individually. Pricing depends on cohort size, number of cohorts, location, and reporting requirements. Email hello@wearedigitalgum.com for a proposal.
Outcomes
Q: How do you measure outcomes?
A: We measure confidence (pre and post assessment), attendance, digital skills development, and employment status at three and six months. Full guide at /how-to-measure-employability-training-outcomes
Q: Do you follow up after the programme ends?
A: Yes. We follow up at six months to report on employment status and business growth. This is not standard in the sector. We do it because it is the right measure.