Government ‘determined’ to close digital divide

Everyone in the UK should have the opportunity and confidence to use digital technology, the government has said.

According to media, tourism and creative minister Chris Bryant, 6% of British adults – including almost a third of over-75s - don’t have internet access at home.

At the same time, 34% of households with school-aged children don’t have an appropriate device for accessing online schoolwork.

“This government is determined to remedy this by closing the digital divide and ensuring everyone has the access, skills, support and confidence to participate in our modern digital society, whatever their circumstances,” Mr Bryant said.

Government to fund local initiatives

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) this week published its digital inclusion action plan, which includes funding for local initiatives across the country.

These will be targeted to the most digitally excluded groups, such as low-income households and the elderly.

In addition, the government is partnering with the charity Digital Poverty Alliance to give laptops to digitally excluded people.

Digital inclusion ‘puts money in people’s pockets'

DSIT pointed out that digitally excluded people can pay up to 25% more than those who are online for vital expenses such as food, train travel and home insurance.

As a result, it believes removing barriers to digital inclusion will “help put more money into people’s pockets”.

“Digital services are a key part of everyday life,” Mr Bryant said.

“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.” 

Technology secretary Peter Kyle added that the technological revolution is “advancing at breakneck speed” and “will not slow down any time soon”.

“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,” he said.