EXPERT HUB – OP ED: DIGITAL INCLUSION 

by: Inclusive Growth Contributor | on: 18.10.23 | in: Uncategorised

RECLAIMING POWER THROUGH DIGITAL INCLUSION: A PATH TO EQUALITY AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH

An opinion piece by Sally Dartnell and Hannah Whelan from Good Things Foundation 

Power is not inherently malevolent; it is the misuse or concentration of power that often results in imbalances and breeds inequality. 

In a democratic society, Governments are entrusted with power to manage the country: setting taxes; allocating public funds; and delivering essential services. However, a disconcerting reality is emerging that the public now perceives the extraordinarily rich as being more influential than Governments – capable of directing the behaviour of others and shaping the course of events. 

This imbalance of power has tipped the scales of equality and negatively impacted individuals and communities. In the pursuit of inclusive growth and reduced inequality, it is crucial that we reclaim power by leveraging the transformative force of digital inclusion across all areas of society. 

Digital inclusion – the act of ensuring that all individuals have access to and can effectively use digital technologies – is not merely a means to technological advancement. Digital inclusion is a powerful tool to bridge the inequality gap and foster a more inclusive UK economy. Here at Good Things Foundation, the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity, we see across various sectors how integral digital inclusion is in promoting equality and levelling the playing field for all. 

This has been noted first-hand in the House of Lords’ recent inquiry into digital exclusion and the cost-of-living crisis. The report discusses how digital exclusion affects millions of UK citizens, and undermines efforts to improve productivity, growth, and socio-economic inclusion as a result. In the modern world being online underpins all areas of society – without it, citizens are left powerless and left behind. 

Take the seven policy areas featured in the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Inclusive Growth, the Policy Institute at King’s College London, and the Fairness Foundation research earlier this month: tax; social security; education; health; housing; employment; and equality. These were ranked by the public as the best areas for solutions to reduce inequality in Britain over the next 10 years and all have digital inclusion as a common thread. 

For example, digital inclusion can encourage improved tax compliance as it is easier for individuals and businesses to remain informed about their accounts and eligibility for services and benefits online, as well as filing taxes accurately. With the likes of Universal Credit and other elements of the UK social security system now digitalised, providing digital access to those most in need ensures that everyone has equal opportunity to engage with the country’s tax and social security systems as well. This is applicable to housing-related matters, such as applying for housing subsidies, property tax payments, and housing-related permits.  

We have been working with HMRC since 2021 to support individuals who need extra help in understanding and complying with their tax obligations and claiming their entitlements, including those who are digitally excluded. And we have seen the impact: we have supported 47,910 individuals with advice and guidance since April 2021 and between 2021-24 this project will aim to reach a further 18,750 people. 

Digital inclusion also opens doors to education and employment as digital skills and access to online platforms enables both lifelong learning and job opportunities. Our recently launched Digital Skills Pathway pilots, which provided digital excluded adults with data, devices, and support for digital skills, are a strong example of this. 68% of the pilot participants achieved at least one desired outcome: 79% reported being more motivated to keep on learning; 47% progressed onto further learning; 44% reported better employment prospects; and 33% applied for a job. 

Access to healthcare is increasingly digitalised as well, as patients experience remote consultations, diagnostics and monitoring, and health awareness tools and support services operating online. Ensuring support to patients who struggle to use digital tools will help prevent further widening of health inequalities. We have recently partnered with NHS England’s Primary Care Transformation Programme to produce tips for healthcare staff on making digital access more inclusive to best combat these challenges. 

And finally on equality: Digital tools empower citizens to participate in the democratic process, engaging with policymakers and advocating for change. To truly embrace digital inclusion as a pathway to inclusive growth, we must take concrete steps to dismantle barriers and empower communities. Alongside our service delivery, Good Things Foundation advocates for three key policies to ensure this is a reality: 

1. Scrapping the VAT on broadband social tariffs: Reducing the cost of internet access for low-income households ensures that everyone can afford to be connected, fostering digital inclusion and social cohesion. 

2. Investing in digital inclusion and skills: By allocating resources towards digital inclusion initiatives and skill development programs, the government can pave the way for a digitally competent workforce, driving economic productivity and innovation. 

3. Reusing tech for good and combating e-waste: Encouraging the reuse of technology for community benefit not only reduces e-waste but also expands digital access to those who may not have the means to purchase new devices. 

The digital divide is a stark manifestation of power imbalances, perpetuating inequality in our society. By reclaiming power through digital inclusion, we can close this divide and unlock the potential for inclusive growth. Digital inclusion is not a luxury, it is a necessity for ensuring that every individual can thrive in the modern world.  
 
By embracing our requests to the Government and working with businesses alike, we can re-tip the scales on equality, creating a fairer and more inclusive economy for all. Let us fix the digital divide for good and harness the transformative power of digital inclusion to forge a more equitable and inclusive UK society. 

You can download the opinion piece here: 

Reclaiming-Power-through-Digital-Inclusion