Digital access at digital hubs

We know that a lack of digital skills and access can have a huge negative impact on a person's life. This leads to poorer health outcomes and a lower life expectancy, increased loneliness and social isolation, less access to jobs and education.

It can mean paying more for essentials, financial exclusion and an increased risk of experiencing poverty. People who are digitally excluded also lack a voice and visibility in the modern world, as government services and democracy increasingly move online.

We know that residents who are already at a disadvantage - through age, education, income, disability or unemployment - are most likely to be missing out. This further widens the social inequality gap. It can create additional layers of social exclusion and exacerbate social and economic problems.