8.5 million individuals lack essential digital skills, while 82% of jobs in this country demand these skills. This means that these 8.5 million people are limited to just 18% of the available job opportunities.
In this fast-paced digital era, change and uncertainty is a constant. Technology, serving as the backbone of our daily interactions, continuously revolutionises the way we communicate, work and learn. Despite these advancements, stark reality remains; not everyone has equal access to these technological advancements. Tech poverty, defined as the lack of essential digital tools and resources, continues to be a barrier for many communities across the UK. Tackling this issue is not just important, it’s essential for building a fairer and more inclusive future for all.
Understanding tech poverty
Tech poverty is more than just a lack of devices, it encompasses the inability to access the internet and the digital literacy skills needed to navigate the digital world. The digital divide disproportionately affects marginalised communities, enabling existing inequalities and limiting opportunities for education, employment, and social engagement.
Recent analysis highlights:
- 7.5 million working age adults lack basic digital skills for work.
- 3.7 million families are below the minimum digital living standard.
- 4% of people are offline, which is around 2.1 million people, with 15% of these being under 50 years old.
- 26% of young people do not have access to a laptop or similar device.
- 25% of those with a disability or health condition lack basic digital skills.
The impact of tech poverty
The consequences of tech poverty are far-reaching. Students without access to digital tools struggle to keep up with their peers, widening the education gap. Job seekers without internet access or digital skills find it challenging to secure employment in an increasingly digital job market. Additionally, individuals without access to online services are often excluded from essential healthcare, financial and social services. Investing in digital skills would not only foster social good, but could achieve a £13.7bn economic benefit for our economy.
Innovative approaches to overcoming tech poverty
Local organisations and community centres can play a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide. By providing access to computers, the internet and digital literacy programmes, these initiatives empower individuals to develop the skills needed to thrive in a digital world.
Collaboration between government, businesses and nonprofits can drive meaningful change. Public-private partnerships can fund infrastructure projects to expand digital capabilities and internet access for disadvantaged communities and support programmes aimed at providing people with affordable devices and digital training.
Schools and educational institutions should integrate digital literacy into curricula where possible, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills needed for the future. Adult education programmes can also help bridge the skills gap. Capita is well accustomed to these challenges and has worked in partnership with the Creative Learning Partnership Trust, where school staff greatly benefited from training on how to use technology more effectively, resulting in improved learning outcomes for their pupils. This training has enabled them to access resources more quickly and easily than ever before, enhancing the overall educational experience.
From digital divide to digital inclusion: A collaborative journey
Addressing tech poverty is not just a necessity; it is an ethical imperative for creating a fairer and more inclusive society. By empowering communities with the essential tools and skills to navigate the digital world, we can bridge the digital divide, ensuring that everyone thrives in our digital age. Through the combined efforts of community-based initiatives, public-private partnerships, education and supportive policies, tech poverty can be tackled head-on. This collective effort will build a future where technology is accessible for all, paving the way for a more equitable and tech-inclusive society and leaving no one behind in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Ready to bridge the digital divide? Contact us today at learning@capita.com to discuss how you can ensure equitable access and shape a future where everyone benefits from digital inclusion.
Find out more about Capita’s learning services:
Justice Onwuka
Senior learning and development consultant, Capita
With global experience in L&D, Justice joined Capita in 2023 to provide value to clients across the public and private sector. He’s committed to helping organisations recognise and harness the multifaceted value of their workforce. With a passion for creating environments where employees thrive, Justice leads the way in developing bespoke, value-driven solutions. By focusing on initiatives that maximise engagement, he ensures each organisation can achieve its goals while empowering its people to reach their full potential.
