Why create Digital Inclusion Principles?
Digital Inclusion means making sure everyone can use and benefit from technology, regardless of age, skill level, income, or background.
Digital tools allow people to learn new skills, find jobs, access healthcare resources, connect with others, and participate more in their local communities.
When groups of people are left behind by advances in technology the digital divide grows. This can happen because of barriers like the high cost of devices, lack of knowledge about how to use them, or limited infrastructure such as access to 4G and 5G signal. Unequal access to digital tools deepens inequality and limits opportunities for people who are already being marginalised.
By investing in digital skills education, affordable connectivity, and accessible technologies, we are enabling more people to be able to thrive in an increasingly online world.
Digital Inclusion ensures that no-one is excluded from the social, economic, and cultural benefits that technology has to offer. This benefits all of us by helping to create a more equal and resilient society.
Who are we working with?
Teams across our organisation are working hard to improve digital inclusion. They are focused on closing the digital gap, building skills, and making our community services more accessible.
We have set up a working group that meets regularly to review and refine our draft Digital Inclusion principles before they are finalised. The group includes staff from different parts of the organisation to make sure we reflect the diverse needs of our services, colleagues, Members, and residents.
This work is not just a tick-box exercise. The principles we are writing together will form a strong foundation to help us work to close the digital divide for our staff and the people of Somerset. They represent an important cultural and practical shift in how we approach our work at Somerset Council.
What happens if we do nothing?
- Some older people, those with disabilities, and people living in remote areas may not be able to use online services. When services are digital-only, they might not be able to get help or even contact our organisation at all, and we risk leaving these groups behind.
- Not knowing how to use the internet or technology, or not having access to it at all, can lead to feeling lonely and struggling with money.
- If we ignore the need for digital inclusion, it can make social gaps worse, reduce trust in leaders, and slow down progress in society and the economy.
- Communities that do not address digital exclusion may become more isolated, less innovative, and less connected to each other.
What happens if we embrace and integrate Digital Inclusion principles?
- Promoting digital inclusion helps make sure everyone has the same chances to succeed, boosts the economy, and creates a fairer society.
- When people have access to digital tools and skills, they can make better choices, take part in their communities, and keep learning throughout their lives.
- Encouraging people to get online supports new ideas, helps the economy grow, and makes communities stronger and more able to cope with change.
- Making digital inclusion a priority helps build a fairer, more connected, and more resilient society for everyone.