UK Government to tackle digital exclusion

The UK Government has laid out new plans to tackle digital exclusion.

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said a new Digital Inclusion Action Plan includes funding for local initiatives targeted to the most digitally-excluded groups, including the elderly and low-income households and partnering with inclusion charity Digital Poverty Alliance to provide laptops to people who are digitally excluded.

In a press release, the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) said people who are digitally excluded can face higher costs for things like home insurance, train travel and food – with people paying up to 25 percent more than consumers who are online.  

“The technological revolution we are living in is not only transforming everyone’s lives, but is advancing at breakneck speed, and will not slow down any time soon,” said Kyle. “Leaving people behind in the process could threaten our mission to maximise technology for economic growth and better public services, which is central to our Plan for Change.

“Only by making technology a widely accessible force for good can we make it a positive catalyst for societal change – whether that means helping a sick patient speak to a GP remotely or giving a young person the devices they need to apply for online jobs or renting a flat.”

Funding for digital inclusion programmes

Charities, local and combined authorities will have access to funding for digital inclusion programmes, boosting communities’ digital access and skills. The funding will empower Mayors and other local leaders to develop local solutions for the most digitally excluded groups in their areas, recognising the challenges they face will be different across the country.

It also includes pledges by key technology companies. Google and BT have pledged to deliver digital skills training to thousands in the UK while Vodafone has committed to help one million people by donating connectivity and technology, affordable services, and upskilling communities.  

“Digital services are a key part of everyday life. Banking, parking your car, searching for the best value insurance, these are all part of modern life. But digital innovation cannot be a privilege of the wealthy or the young,” said Telecoms Minister Chris Bryant.

“From boosting digital skills to improving access to laptops, today we are setting out clear actions to give everyone across the UK the skills, confidence, and opportunity to make the most of the digital world and thrive in our modern society.”

Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, said digital inclusion is not just about providing access to technology; it’s about unlocking opportunities for everyone.

“In the Liverpool City Region, we’ve seen first-hand the transformative power of ensuring that nobody is left behind in the digital age,” he said.

“With this new government initiative, we are taking a giant step forward in closing the digital divide, giving individuals the tools they need to succeed and thrive, whether that’s through education, employment, or improving their everyday lives.”

It is estimated that 1.6 million people in the UK currently live offline, meaning they lack the devices, connection or skills to get online, and around a quarter of the UK population struggle to use online services.