Digital exclusion in the North West
A recent study by Lancaster University found that more than 1 in 4 (26%) of residents in the North West do not have the skills or confidence to complete basic online tasks, like applying for a job or making a video call.
It’s one of the main reasons the North West is considered one of the UK’s most digitally deprived areas.
“Our findings are incredibly worrying,” said Ben Harrison from the Work Foundation, which worked with Lancaster University researchers on the study. “It’s alarming that such a high proportion of the North West population still really struggle with these basic digital skills.”
But what are the real-world consequences of digital exclusion? Why does it matter? Who is most affected? What’s being done about it? And, most importantly, how can people living in the North West find reliable deals offering fast and reliable broadband?
Let’s find out
The impact of digital exclusion in the North West
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, explains why bridging the digital divide in the North West is so important:
“We have to make a big commitment to fix the digital divide in Greater Manchester. The consequences of not doing so are severe – with our people at risk of social isolation, lack of equal opportunities, and not being able to access support.”
Research shows that people without access to affordable and reliable internet are far more likely to experience financial difficulties. It can also exacerbate existing financial problems by making it harder to apply for jobs or employment support schemes.
Heather MacDonald, a Salford resident, highlights the personal impact of digital exclusion.
“I lost my job just before COVID hit. I had to cut back on bills, including broadband,” says Heather. “Everything moved online during the lockdowns. I had to walk to friends’ houses to use the internet, which put them and me at risk.”
“I felt guilty, but I had no choice. I had to apply for assistance and, in some cases, order my weekly food shop. I’m not in the best health. So I couldn’t stand in those long queues outside the supermarket during the first few weeks of lockdown.”
“Having no internet made a really stressful situation a hundred times more stressful.”
What is being done about digital exclusion in the North West?
The UK government has acknowledged the problem of digital exclusion in the North West. More importantly, it’s introduced a series of policies and initiatives to digitally level the region.
In October 2020, the Greater Manchester Digital Inclusion Agenda was launched, along with a new Digital Inclusion Taskforce.
Together, these important projects are making it easier for independent broadband providers to build new networks in areas long ignored by mainstream internet firms.
They’re also providing free digital skills training and workshops to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, the unemployed, and members of the homeless community.
Plus, several programmes provide laptops, mobile devices, and free internet to school children from families experiencing economic hardship. Numerous studies show that children without the internet at home underperform academically compared to their digitally connected classmates.
Specific projects include CodeYourFuture, a Manchester-based non-profit offering free 8-month full-stack web development courses to disadvantaged groups.
Then there’s Tech and Tea, a free weekly workshop for older people who want to get online. Funded by Salford City Council Public Health Team and delivered through the Age Friendly Salford programme, it’s teaching elderly Salford residents to email, shop online, and use video-call apps like Zoom.
“I’m using my tablet more now,” said one participant. “It’s been fantastic being able to speak to my family when I can’t go and see them.”
Another said, “It’s been really helpful as I now do internet banking and food shopping. I feel like I have some independence back.”
How to find fast and reliable broadband deals in the North West
The Broadband Market deal finder is the quickest way to see what connections are available in your area right now.
It was created to connect local people to local network providers delivering fast and reliable internet at very affordable prices. Some of the deals start from less than £15p/m.
Get connected, then stay connected. Enter your postcode now to see all the latest deals and offers.
