Businesses across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire are being asked to help shape the Government’s digital inclusion strategy by sharing their insights with the Chambers of Commerce.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has unveiled an initiative which aims to enhance digital access and skills across the nation, particularly targeting young people, older adults, individuals with disabilities, those currently unemployed and low-income households.
Figures show that many in Britain risk being left behind if no action is taken, with 1.6 million people in the UK currently living offline, meaning they lack the devices, connection or skills to get online, while around a quarter of the UK population struggle to use online services.
The DSIT action plan introduces five immediate government actions: launching a Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund to support local initiatives; enhancing frameworks that assist individuals and businesses in acquiring essential digital skills; piloting a device donation scheme in collaboration with the Digital Poverty Alliance to repurpose government laptops for those in need; improving the accessibility of government digital services; and conducting research to identify effective digital inclusion strategies and assess the economic and social benefits of upskilling adults.
The action plan also features commitments from key industry partners, such as Google, who will develop a new partnership with DSIT to deliver intensive training to support adults with low digital skills, and Vodafone, who have committed to maintaining their social tariff product offerings.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is now putting together a response to the call for evidence and is appealing for local businesses to share their feedback via this link.
Declan Riddell, Policy Adviser at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “The government has launched a call for evidence on a Digital Inclusion Action Plan and we urge businesses to share their views on the plan and what needs to be done to create a more digitally inclusive society.
“Digital exclusion can take many forms and we need to ensure that all members of our society can access a stable and affordable internet connection, the right sort of device, or the skills needed to complete tasks confidently and safely online.”
Digital skills training specialists Wavemaker Stoke have been championing digital inclusion since 2015, and directors Ben McManus and Alex Rowley have urged businesses to get involved.
Ben said: “As businesses, we have a real stake in the success of the Digital Inclusion Plan. A digitally excluded workforce holds back productivity, innovation, and economic growth – so it’s in everyone’s interest to help shape a more connected and confident society. We welcome Staffordshire Chambers’ call for feedback and are proud to contribute to this important conversation.”
Alex added: “We’ve seen first-hand how access to the right digital tools and support can transform lives. The Government’s plan is a hugely positive step and the beginning of something much bigger.
“With rapid advancements in AI and digital technology, our economy and way of life are set to change dramatically – and it’s never been more important to ensure everyone has the opportunity to benefit. Digital inclusion can empower communities to truly thrive.”
Businesses have until Friday, 4 April, to ensure their voices are heard as part of the Chambers’ response.
