Report

Bridging the divide

This report from UK think tank the Fabian Society looks at how to tackle digital inequality in a post-pandemic world.

Too many people still lack the technology or skills they need to live in today’s online world. This is leading to a widening divide in society, exacerbated by our reliance on digital technology during the pandemic. Bridging the Divide shows that, while more people are online now than before the pandemic, 1.5 million households are still not connected to the internet at all, and 29 per cent of adults have very low digital engagement – barely using internet devices, email or online shopping and banking. Some groups are much more likely to be digitally excluded than others, including older people, disabled people and people on low incomes. The report argues for three ‘digital entitlements’ that will ensure all citizens have access to digital life.