Digital Inclusion Plan Reaches One Million People

More than one million people across the UK have been supported to get online through the government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan, according to a first-year progress update published by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).

The report states that the plan has either delivered or is on track to deliver all of its initial commitments. It brings together work from government, industry and charities to improve access to devices, connectivity and digital skills.

In its first year, over 22,000 devices have been distributed through donation and refurbishment schemes, while £11.9 million has been allocated to a Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund supporting more than 80 community-based projects across England. Additional funding has also been provided to devolved administrations to support locally delivered initiatives.

The government says these programmes have helped people secure better broadband and mobile connections, access more affordable services, and build the digital skills needed for everyday activities such as managing finances, applying for jobs and accessing public services.

Alongside this, responsibility for the Essential Digital Skills (EDS) Framework and its national survey will transfer to government. The framework is expected to be updated to reflect changing digital requirements, including the growing role of artificial intelligence and online safety.

The next phase of the plan will focus on expanding device donation schemes, scaling up community-based support and improving the accessibility of online services. A cross-government ministerial group will also work to embed digital inclusion into the design of future public services.

While the figures point to significant reach in the first year, digital exclusion remains a particular challenge in rural areas, where connectivity gaps, affordability issues and access to local support can all be more pronounced.

Ensuring that future phases of the action plan are effectively targeted at rural communities, including through reliable infrastructure, locally delivered support and affordable access will be key to enabling residents and businesses in these areas to fully benefit from digital services and opportunities.

Read in full the Digital Inclusion Action Plan One Year Report here