Bradford District Credit Union (BDCU) is celebrating the success of its recent Safer Internet Day 2026 webinar, which attracted over 300 registrations — the highest number the organisation has ever received for an online event.

The webinar, titled “Empowering AI Confidence,” was created to help participants understand the opportunities and challenges of today’s digital world. The session explored themes such as building confidence in artificial intelligence (AI), recognising misinformation and navigating safe online spaces.

Bringing together leading voices from across West Yorkshire, the event provided a platform for experts in digital inclusion, education, community safety and financial services to share insights on how technology is shaping everyday life.

The agenda included a diverse mix of talks covering topics such as:

• The positive potential of AI and its impact on society
• The future of AI in education
• Understanding online radicalisation
• Tackling misinformation
• Strengthening safe digital practices within community banking

Following a warm welcome from host Sharon Sanders, the session concluded with an interactive panel Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers and explore realworld questions.

One of the session leaders, Ian Brewer, EDI Community Development Lead at BDCU, reflected on the importance of events like this: “At BDCU, we believe financial inclusion goes hand in hand with digital inclusion. As technology evolves, particularly with the rapid growth of AI, it is vital that everyone has access to clear, trustworthy information.

“By bringing together experts and creating open, accessible spaces for learning, webinars like these help level the playing field by ensuring our communities are not left behind in conversations about modern technology.

“Increasing understanding of AI, online safety and the danger of misinformation strengthens equality, empowers individuals and builds more resilient communities, and that’s exactly why we will continue to host events like these — to equip our members and the wider public with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate an increasingly digital world safely.”

The success of the webinar highlights a growing appetite for trusted, communityfocused guidance on digital literacy and online safety. BDCU remains committed to supporting members and local communities by providing accessible learning opportunities designed to build confidence, promote resilience and ensure everyone can thrive in an increasingly digital landscape.

Listen to the official recording here: https://youtu.be/ywXRsANkzyk