UK Government unveils Digital Inclusion Action Plan to address skills gap
The UK government has announced a new Digital Inclusion Action Plan, to address digital exclusion and equipping millions with essential online skills.
The initiative is led by Members of Parliament Sir Chris Bryant MP and Peter Kyle from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.
Addressing digital exclusion in the UK
According to government research, one in four Britons faces barriers to digital access, with 1.6 million people living offline. Limited digital skills can result in higher costs for services such as home insurance, travel, and utilities, with some paying up to 25% more than those who are online. The government has highlighted digital skills as essential for accessing public services, managing finances, and improving employment opportunities.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating:
"The technological revolution we are living in is not only transforming everyone’s lives but is advancing at breakneck speed, and will not slow down any time soon. Leaving people behind in the process could threaten our mission to maximize technology for economic growth and better public services, which is central to our Plan for Change."
The Digital Inclusion Action Plan aims to bridge the gap by funding local initiatives that provide digital skills training and access to technology, particularly for the elderly and low-income households. The government will also partner with Digital Poverty Alliance to distribute laptops to those most in need.
Industry partnerships to expand training and connectivity
The plan has secured backing from major technology companies, which will provide digital skills training, affordable connectivity, and free access to technology:
Google will collaborate with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) to provide intensive digital skills training for adults with low digital proficiency.
BT and Vodafone have pledged to connect one million people to digital services, including through discounted tariffs and donated devices.
CityFibre is expanding broadband connections to 170 community sites across the UK, offering six months of free service.
Virgin Media O2 will increase its digital inclusion efforts, providing connectivity and digital literacy programs for one million people by the end of 2025.
WightFibre will provide free or discounted broadband to community organizations on the Isle of Wight to ensure public access to Wi-Fi.
Telecoms Minister Chris Bryant underscored the importance of making digital access universal, stating:
"Digital services are a key part of everyday life. Banking, parking your car, searching for the best value insurance, these are all part of modern life. But digital innovation cannot be a privilege of the wealthy or the young. From boosting digital skills to improving access to laptops, today we are setting out clear actions to give everyone across the UK the skills, confidence, and opportunity to make the most of the digital world and thrive in our modern society."
Debbie Weinstein, President of Google EMEA and Interim Head of Google UK, said:
"It’s essential that we bridge the digital divide and equip everyone with the skills they need to harness the opportunities of the online world. We’re excited to be a part of the Digital Inclusion Action Plan — building on our legacy of training over 1 million Brits in digital skills. Ensuring that everyone benefits from helpful, productivity-boosting AI-powered technologies is key to growth and to what we do."
Local Authorities to play a key role
The government will provide funding to local councils and mayors to implement community-driven solutions that reflect the specific digital challenges faced in different regions. Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, welcomed the approach, saying:
"There is still too much digital exclusion in the UK. Technology should be accessible to all, and I welcome the recognition of Mayoral Combined Authorities as leaders in driving locally-led solutions."
Similarly, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, highlighted the broader impact of digital inclusion efforts:
"Digital inclusion is not just about providing access to technology; it’s about unlocking opportunities for everyone. In the Liverpool City Region, we’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of ensuring that nobody is left behind in the digital age."
Helen Milner OBE, Group Chief Executive of Good Things Foundation, emphasized the importance of local partnerships:
"For the first time ever, digital inclusion is firmly on the national agenda. It’s fantastic to see recognition from the heart of government that urgent and joined-up action is needed to enable millions of people to overcome barriers to good work, good health, and realising their full potential."
Expanding infrastructure and connectivity
The plan also includes major infrastructure upgrades to improve nationwide digital access:
Openreach is building ultrafast broadband to 25 million premises by 2026, with plans to connect 500 community hubs in deprived areas.
Sky will support 70 Sky Up Hubs, providing free internet, technology, and training in partnership with charities.
Three will donate over 2 million GB of data and offer digital skills training to 270,000 people by 2030.
The initiative aligns with the government's broader Plan for Change, which aims to increase economic growth, enhance digital skills, and reduce regional inequalities.
