Supporting Digital Inclusion: A Local Government Mandate

Digital inclusion, ensuring that all individuals and communities have access to and can effectively use information and communication technologies (ICT), has become a vital issue in today’s increasingly connected world. The UK ranks fourth in Europe and 17th in the World for its online population (Statista). For local governments, championing digital inclusion is not just a matter of social equity but also an essential strategy for fostering economic growth, enhancing public services, and improving the overall quality of life for their residents. This article explains how local authorities can support the digital inclusion transition in communities.

The Growth in Broadband Access and Adoption

1. Internet Usage: In 2023, 98% of UK households had internet access, an increase from 93% in 2019 (Office for National Statistics).
2. Geographic Disparities: Urban areas have higher broadband coverage compared to rural areas. In 2020, 98% of premises in urban areas had access to superfast broadband, while in rural areas, this figure was 80% (Ofcom).
3. Gigabit Broadband: As of May 2021, around 37% of UK homes had access to gigabit-capable broadband, up from 27% in September 2020 (Ofcom).

Millions Struggling to Afford Internet Access

1. Cost of Broadband: The average cost of broadband in the UK is £26.90 per month, as of 2023 (USwitch).
2. Low-Income Households: A report by the Good Things Foundation in 2020 found that 24% of the lowest-income households (earning less than £15,000 a year) do not have home internet access.
3. Digital Poverty: The same report highlighted that around 1.9 million households in the UK struggle to afford internet access.

The Digital Literacy Skills Gap

1. Digital Skills Gap: In 2021, the UK government reported that around 11.7 million people lack basic digital skills, which include being able to communicate online, handle information and content, transact, and stay safe and legal online (Lloyds Bank UK Consumer Digital Index).
2. Older Adults: Among those aged 65 and over, 18% do not use the internet, compared to 1% of those aged 16-44 (ONS).
3. Children and Young People: During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was reported by Ofcom that 9% of children in the UK did not have access to a laptop, desktop, or tablet at home, affecting their ability to participate in online learning (BBC).

Accessibility Issues for Disabled Individuals

Disabled people are less likely to use the internet; in 2020, 78% of disabled adults had used the internet in the last three months, compared to 92% of non-disabled adults (ONS).

These statistics illustrate the significant challenges in bridging the digital divide between age, income and disabilities in the UK, highlighting the importance of continued investment in digital inclusion initiatives.

Understanding Digital Inclusion

Digital inclusion encompasses several key components:

1. Access to Broadband Internet: Reliable, high-speed internet is foundational for digital inclusion. Without it, communities cannot participate fully in the digital world.
2. Affordable Internet Services and Devices: Cost can be a significant barrier to digital access. Ensuring affordability of both internet services and digital devices is crucial.
3. Digital Literacy: Being able to use digital technologies effectively and safely is as important as having access to them.
4. Accessible Digital Content: Online content must be accessible to individuals with disabilities, following principles of universal design.

The Role of Local Governments

Local governments are uniquely positioned to address digital inclusion challenges due to their close connections with communities and ability to tailor solutions to local needs. Here are several strategies they can employ:

Expanding Broadband Infrastructure

• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with private sector companies to expand broadband infrastructure, especially in underserved rural and urban areas.
• Municipal Broadband Networks: Some cities have successfully implemented municipal broadband networks to provide affordable high-speed internet to residents.

Making Internet Access Affordable

• Subsidies and Grants: Offer subsidies or grants to low-income families to help cover the cost of internet services and digital devices.
• Digital Inclusion Programs: Develop programs that provide refurbished devices to those in need and create public Wi-Fi hotspots in community centres, libraries, and parks.

Enhancing Digital Literacy

• Community Training Programs: Establish digital literacy training programs in libraries, schools, and community centres. Focus on essential skills such as navigating the internet, using software applications, and understanding online safety and privacy.
• School Partnerships: Work with local schools to integrate digital literacy into the curriculum, ensuring students from all backgrounds develop these critical skills.

Ensuring Accessible Digital Content

• Adopting Universal Design Principles: Ensure that government websites and digital services comply with accessibility standards, making them usable for individuals with disabilities.
• Promoting Inclusive Design Practices: Encourage local businesses and organizations to adopt inclusive design practices for their digital content.

Case Studies of Local Initiatives

1. Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA): GMCA’s Digital Inclusion Strategy focuses on providing digital skills training, affordable internet access, and devices to underserved communities.
2. Leeds City Council: The 100% Digital Leeds initiative aims to ensure all residents have the skills and access needed to benefit from digital technologies, with a focus on providing devices and training to digitally excluded groups.

Measuring Impact and Progress

To ensure the effectiveness of digital inclusion initiatives, local governments should:

• Conduct Regular Assessments: Measure broadband availability, affordability, and adoption rates within the community.
• Engage with the Community: Solicit feedback from residents to understand their needs and challenges related to digital access and literacy.
• Set Clear Goals and Benchmarks: Define specific, measurable goals for digital inclusion efforts and track progress over time.

The Pivotal Role of Local Governments in Digital Inclusion

Digital inclusion is an essential component of a thriving, equitable community. Local governments play a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide, ensuring all residents have the tools and skills needed to participate fully in the digital age. By expanding broadband access, making internet services and devices affordable, enhancing digital literacy, and ensuring accessible digital content, local governments can foster a more inclusive, connected, and prosperous society. The efforts to support digital inclusion today will pave the way for a more resilient and empowered community tomorrow.

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