In today’s digital age, having access to technology and the skills to use it effectively is essential for equal opportunities and social inclusion. This is known as ‘digital inclusion’. Making sure all individuals and communities have equal access to digital technologies, including the internet, and the necessary knowledge to use them effectively.

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Why does digital inclusion matter?

We must not underestimate the importance of digital inclusion. Technology plays a significant role in accessing information, education, job opportunities, and vital support services, such as government benefits. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend, with many essential services moving online, now only accessible via website or app. Digital inclusion helps reduce inequalities and ensures that everyone has an equal chance to succeed.

However, not everyone has equal access to digital technologies. The digital divide (digital exclusion) refers to the gap between those who have access to technology and those who do not. There are many reasons for this inequality, including:

  • Lack of access to affordable devices or data connectivity
  • Limited skills to engage online safely and confidently
  • Lacking educational resources, training or support
  • Accessibility barriers, such as lack of assistive software, hardware, or guidance

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Digital exclusion exists on a scale

Digital exclusion can be hard to measure correctly because it is not a fixed state. People may face one or more digital barriers at different times during their life, caused by other vulnerabilities or events. Unemployment may make data connectivity unaffordable. Once a person gets a job, they can afford to get back online and are no longer digitally excluded.

Digital exclusion exists on a spectrum, where people move from being offline and never using the internet to being fully engaged online.

The impact of digital exclusion is significant, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, communities, and society. Old age, poverty, ethnicity, education, housing, health, and regional deprivation are just a few examples of factors that influence potential digital exclusion.

The digital divide may be about to get wider

In the UK (and elsewhere around the world), digital-only broadband connections are replacing traditional copper telephone lines – a change set to be completed by 2027. For anyone affected by a lack of access to digital technologies, the switchover may worsen existing inequalities and limit opportunities for social mobility.

How can digital exclusion be addressed?

Digital exclusion is a public policy issue that requires attention and action. Governments, organizations, and individuals must work together to provide accessible and affordable digital technologies. This will need to be backed by training and support programs to help people develop skills necessary to become digitally literate.

It is important to realise that digital inclusion is not just about internet access. Work will need to be done to create an inclusive online environment that values diversity and promotes social cohesion. This requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the intersectional nature of digital exclusion.

Looking into the future, digital inclusion is essential for promoting equal opportunities and social inclusion in today’s digital world. By recognizing digital inclusion barriers and addressing them, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society. Everyone benefits from technology. No one is left behind.

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