techUK is proud to support the End Digital Poverty Day campaign spearheaded by the Digital Poverty Alliance, that looks at raising awareness, discussing solutions, and driving actionable strategies to eradicate digital poverty. Digital poverty refers to the significant disparities in access to essential digital tools and resources. Around 1.7 million households in the UK lack internet access, and 1.4 million households rely solely on mobile data to connect online. The problem extends to adults over 65, with 30% not using the internet or having the necessary devices and skills for basic digital activities.
Other mind-blowing statistics:
- 1 in 5 children home schooling during the pandemic did not have access to an appropriate device like a laptop.
- 26% of young people do not have access to a laptop or similar device.
- 53% of people offline cannot afford an average monthly broadband bill.
- 2.5 million people are behind on their broadband bills.
In 2014, techUK called for delivery of a ‘digital for everyone’ inclusion strategy by 2020, to ensure that all UK adults have the basic digital skills required to communicate, find goods and services and access information online. Since we are beyond 2020, it's clear we need further collective recognition to get everyone up to the digital start line and motived to keep building their digital capability.
#EndDigitalPovertyDay means not only spreading awareness of the damage digital exclusion can do, but also the impact inclusion services can have. This webinar will showcase practical interventions that companies can action and also bring together experts, policymakers, and community leaders to explore comprehensive approaches to ensure digital equity for all.
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