I recently responded to a Call for Evidence on the government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan: First Steps. It represents a tentative first step, but we need transformative action to ensure no one is left behind in our increasingly digital society. As Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Science, Innovation and Technology, I’ve responded to the government with concrete proposals for systemic change.

Digital Access is a Fundamental Right

In modern Britain, digital inclusion isn’t optional – it’s essential for full participation in society. Whether accessing Universal Credit, booking GP appointments, or helping children with homework, being online has become as vital as having running water or electricity. Yet millions remain excluded from our digital society.

The economic case is compelling. Research by CEBR shows £9.48 return for every £1 invested in digital inclusion. The Local Government Association found a 4% increase in economic activity per 10% broadband increase. Digital exclusion deepens inequalities, reduces productivity, and increases pressure on public services.

Beyond the Usual Suspects

While the government identifies five priority groups – low-income households, older people, disabled people, unemployed and young people – this framework needs expansion. Digital exclusion affects social housing tenants, benefits recipients, people with health conditions, single parents, those with English as second language, and geographically isolated communities.

Research by Stockport Homes demonstrates how these characteristics intersect – tenants who don’t use the internet are more likely to be over 55, have disabilities, and rely on pensions, with 30% having no devices at all.

Learning from Success

We have excellent models to build upon. 100% Digital Leeds provides a council-led blueprint focusing on third-sector capacity building. Greater Manchester’s evidence-based approach targets specific demographic needs with affordable connectivity solutions. Digital Unite’s Digital Champions Network offers scalable peer support across multiple settings.

Four Pillars – But We Need More

The government’s four focus areas – skills, tackling poverty, breaking barriers, and building confidence – provide a foundation but need strengthening:

Digital Rights and Citizenship must be added as a fifth pillar. We need comprehensive online safety education, privacy protection frameworks, and digital citizenship understanding.

For Skills, we must establish digital literacy as a statutory right with clear progression pathways integrated into essential public services.

For Data and Device Poverty, internet access should be an essential utility with legal rights to data access, mandatory social tariff provision, and sustainable device recycling infrastructure.

For Breaking Barriers, we need universal design standards, digital “right-of-way” for public services, multi-language support, and guaranteed offline alternatives.

For Building Confidence, comprehensive scam awareness programs, peer learning networks, and addressing cultural barriers are essential.

Practical Solutions Now

Several immediate actions could transform digital inclusion:

  • Auto-enrollment for social tariffs through DWP systems would ensure eligible households automatically receive affordable connectivity
  • VAT reform on broadband – using the 15% differential to create a social inclusion fund
  • National device donation scheme – government departments and businesses donating refurbished equipment
  • Digital champions in every community – trained volunteers providing local support
  • Emergency connectivity support – for those in crisis situations

Sustainable Funding Essential

The Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund needs minimum 3-5 year commitments, ring-fenced allocation for deprived areas, and support for both grassroots innovation and proven programs. We should remove early termination charges for benefits recipients and simplify social tariff applications.

Working Together

Success requires partnership across government, industry, charities and communities. We need a National Digital Inclusion Forum, regional partnerships, and statutory requirements for public service digital access. Employers must actively promote digital upskilling – as FutureDotNow argues, businesses across all sectors need incentives to train their workforce in essential digital skills.

The Cost of Inaction

Digital exclusion isn’t just about technology – it’s about social justice. Every day offline means missed opportunities for education, employment, healthcare, and social connection. The pandemic showed us the devastating impact of digital exclusion. We cannot return to treating it as an afterthought.

Time for Transformation

The government’s plan provides a foundation, but we need greater ambition and systemic change. By treating digital inclusion as fundamental infrastructure backed by appropriate resources and statutory requirements, we can ensure no one is left behind.

Change starts with ideas and is achieved by actions. Digital inclusion is one of the defining challenges of our time. Together, we can build a digitally inclusive Britain where everyone has the skills, access, and confidence to thrive in our digital world.