Digital Exclusion

Digital technology has become increasingly important in our lives. We rely on it for working and learning, accessing public services, shopping, entertainment and connecting with others.

But as digital technology’s importance to our daily lives has increased, so has the risk that people who don’t use it are losing out. Those who don’t have access to it, don’t have the skills and confidence to use it, or choose not to use it, will be excluded from the services many take for granted.

Research on digital exclusion shows that it is strongly associated with poverty and other forms of inequality and disadvantage. Older people, women, young care leavers, people who are disabled, those experiencing poverty and minority ethnic communities are more likely to be at risk of digital exclusion. Poverty is a key driver with cost the main barrier to people getting online. But while there is some data on internet access and use, there is a lack of a complete picture of who is affected and how.

Audit Scotland are conducting a review to consider how well public bodies understand and are tackling digital exclusion. Corra will be supporting the public engagement element of the audit and the overall aim of ensuring people’s experiences shape the audit process at all stages.

Corra will be hosting several focus groups across Argyll and Bute and Renfrewshire council areas. The purpose of the focus groups is to provide an opportunity for people to share their lived experience in using and accessing online tools and services, raise the things that are important to them and help shape the audit questions.