Despite advancements in technology, digital poverty continues to impact millions across the UK, with up to 19 million adults and 1 in 5 children affected, according to the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) and Deloitte.
This issue, often overlooked, has become increasingly urgent as the world becomes more reliant on digital access for essential services, education, and employment.
Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the Digital Poverty Alliance, underscored the importance of digital access: “With so much of our lives continuing to revolve around digital, it is imperative that digital access becomes a basic human right.
“Digital inclusion means access to a suitable digital device such as a laptop, broadband connectivity to get onto the internet and access essential services including online healthcare, and digital skills to be able to use a device and the internet.
“Many of us take digital for granted, but there are still as many as 19 million people who still go without.”
Why ending digital poverty is crucial
Addressing digital poverty is critical for creating a more equitable society. The lack of access to digital resources not only limits opportunities for education and employment but also restricts access to essential services such as healthcare and social support.
In today’s world, being digitally excluded is synonymous with being socially and economically marginalised.
Children growing up in digital poverty face significant educational disadvantages. With many schools relying on online learning resources, children without access to technology are left behind, perpetuating cycles of inequality.
Additionally, adults who lack digital skills may find it difficult to secure employment or access vital services, further deepening their socioeconomic struggles.
The need for a national digital inclusion strategy
The DPA says a lack of government action on digital poverty has been a topic of concern. In 2022, the House of Lords Communications and Digital Committee highlighted the absence of a coherent digital inclusion strategy, noting that the last plan was developed in 2014.
The committee was critical of the “distinct lack of leadership” within the government to address the growing digital divide.
Although the government has introduced some initiatives, such as an £800m fund to improve broadband connectivity in rural areas, these measures fall short of addressing the comprehensive needs of those affected by digital poverty.
Anderson added: “The new government has a significant task but a huge opportunity in front of them to bridge the digital divide. A digital inclusion strategy should be a central part of their policy.”
End Digital Poverty Day: A call to action
Today, the DPA, in partnership with companies like Currys and Virgin Media O2, will mark the second annual End Digital Poverty Day.
This event aims to raise awareness, engage communities, and mobilise efforts to eradicate digital poverty by 2030. It serves as a reminder that digital access is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
The DPA is actively working to close the digital gap through various initiatives, such as Tech4Families, Tech4Youth, and Tech4YoungCarers.
These programmes aim to provide access to devices, connectivity, and digital skills to those most in need.
Research by the DPA reveals that 86% of parents experiencing digital poverty cite cost as the primary barrier preventing their children from accessing digital devices like laptops. This further widens the digital divide, especially in underserved communities.
Ending digital poverty by 2030 is a key goal for the DPA, but achieving this will require coordinated efforts from government, private sector partners, and community organisations.
The economic and social benefits of digital inclusion are clear—improving education outcomes, increasing employability, and enabling greater participation in society.
As the world becomes more digital, ensuring that no one is left behind is not just a moral imperative but an economic one as well.
