UK government boosts digital access for more than a million people

The UK government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan has helped more than a million people access online and digital services in its first year.

“Our digital inclusion efforts are already changing people’s lives for the better, but we are determined to go even further, so we can build a future that works for all.”

Access to digital technologies in the UK is not equal, with many individuals unable to afford their own devices, access the internet or gain skills.

The availability of technology in schools varies by location, while a lack of access to artificial intelligence (AI) means there is also a growing gap in AI skills despite its increasing use in daily life.

As the world becomes increasingly digitised, day-to-day activities, from managing finances to applying for jobs, now require access to computers and the internet, yet many UK citizens don’t have the basic digital skills needed to navigate daily life or to function in the modern workplace.

Digital inclusion changes lives. When people have the confidence and support to navigate the digital world, they feel more connected, more empowered and better able to manage everyday challenges

The Digital Inclusion Action Plan has seen the government work alongside the technology sector and charities to provide devices and digital skills to those being left behind in the wake of rapid technology adoption.

Its one-year progress report found that the commitments the government has made as part of the initiative have either been delivered or are on track to be delivered.

This includes launching an £11.9m Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund to support local digital skills initiatives across the UK, which has helped more than 80 projects across England aimed at reducing the digital divide.

These various projects have helped more than one million people access digital services through improved broadband and mobile connections, skills training, access to support, more affordable services and supply for devices.

To ensure continued progress, the government is planning several next steps for digital skills and inclusion across the UK.

One of these is to update and move forward with the Essential Digital Skills (EDS) Framework, formerly managed by Lloyds Banking Group, which monitors what digital skills are required to successfully navigate daily life.

It will also continue to follow the guidance of the Digital Inclusion Action Committee to sustain efforts to close the UK’s digital divide.

Hilary Armstrong, chair of the Digital Inclusion Action Committee, said: “Digital inclusion changes lives. When people have the confidence and support to navigate the digital world, they feel more connected, more empowered and better able to manage everyday challenges.

 “We’ve made important progress, but the job isn’t finished. As chair of the Digital Inclusion Action Committee, I will continue championing the voices of those most affected as we enter the next phase of action.”