A new Digital Inclusion Action Plan, published today (26th February 2025) by technology secretary Peter Kyle, aims to address the problem of digital exclusion by funding local initiatives targeted towards the most digitally-excluded groups. 1.6 million people across the UK are currently living offline, and around a quarter of the population have challenges using online services.
This follows research that shows that people who are digitally excluded can pay up to 25 per cent more for things like home insurance, train travel and food, compared to those who shop online. In line with more and more public services becoming digitalised, the government is committed to improving the nation’s digital skills and access to technology to ensure more people can reap the benefits of the online world.
The Digital Inclusion Action Plan will focus on groups such as the elderly and low-income households which are known to be more digitally excluded, and will partner with the Digital Poverty Alliance to provide laptops.
Charities and local and combined authorities will be able to access funds for digital inclusion programmes, which will empower Mayors and local leaders to develop local solutions for the most digitally excluded groups.
Key technology companies have also committed to help break down the digital divide, with Google committing to delivering digital skills training for adults with low digital skills and Vodafone donating connectivity and technology, affordable devices, and upskilling communities.
Technology secretary Peter Kyle said: “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.
“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.”
