It’s time the Government invests in fixing the digital divide

Our services have moved online - but not everyone can keep up

The recent House of Lords debate on digital exclusion highlighted how accessing crucial services has become increasingly difficult for people, especially as more banks, post offices, and rail ticket offices shut down. All of our lives have moved online and increasing isolation in society is a growing concern. 

Baroness Harding has called on the government to take immediate action to tackle the digital divide. And it’s not just the House of Lords calling for urgent action – people in the UK believe more should be done too.

Our recent survey revealed that 76% of people believe the government should invest in digital inclusion. The same survey reported that 21% of people online feel left behind by technology.

The scope and impact of digital exclusion

In this digital age, lacking access, skills, and support to navigate the online world leaves people and the economy significantly worse off. The Lords’ debate revealed that “the shortage of digital skills is costing the UK economy £63 billion a year” (Baroness Stowell of Beeston). By investing in digital literacy, connectivity, and access, we can unlock growth and drive forward the UK’s economy, enhancing the quality of life for all.

As Baroness Lane Fox argued in the debate: ‘It’s the economy stupid’, digital inclusion is not just about social justice, technological access, or some niche challenge afflicting a single demographic, it affects all age groups and is tied to economic progress. Ignoring the digital divide means sidelining a significant portion of our workforce and potential innovators, exacerbating skill gaps, and ultimately hampering our economic growth. Investing in digital inclusion is investing in the future of our economy, ensuring that nobody is left behind.

Government’s lack of progress

The Lords’ repeated their claim that the Government’s political lethargy has exacerbated the digital divide. ‘Their previous strategy is 10 years old and is now in the National Archives’, Baroness Foster pointed out earlier this month, highlighting stark neglect in updating and refining their approach that is constantly growing in complexity and urgency. This does not just undermine confidence, as Baroness Stowell pointed out, but represents a disconnect between government and the evolving digital world. 

The urgent need for action on digital exclusion

A new strategy is not a silver bullet, it’s what it represents which is essential. That’s why we're calling for an action plan, signalling a commitment to proactive, forward-thinking leadership. Without this, the government’s stance not only remains outdated but also alarmingly out of touch with the harsh realities of millions grappling with digital exclusion amidst a worsening cost-of-living crisis.

Catch up on our conversation with Baroness Dido Harding and Baroness Anna Healy and find out what they would do to tackle and fix the digital divide for good.