Digital Inclusion & Capabilities

Digital access is increasingly essential for everyday life from managing finances and accessing healthcare to applying for work and learning new skills.  However, many residents continue to face barriers such as affordability, skills, confidence, accessibility and connectivity.

 Digital Kent works with partners across the county to reduce these barriers and improve access to opportunities and services online.

Digital exclusion is often caused by a combination of challenges.  These include:

Affordability and Access

Cost remains one of the most significant barriers to digital inclusion. The cost of devices and affordable internet connectivity can prevent people from fully participating in today's increasingly digital world.

Support to help with this can include:

• Social tariffs offering reduced-cost broadband and mobile services for eligible households - Social tariffs: Cheaper broadband and phone packages
• Affordable connectivity initiatives - Supporting people with data connectivity
• Device reuse and refurbishment schemes - Reusing Devices For Digital Inclusion
• Digital Kent, part of the Helping Hands Scheme supporting eligible residents with devices and digital access - Our Projects and Schemes
• Community digital access points such as libraries, community hubs and partner organisations offering internet access and digital support.

Digital inclusion helps people to:

• Access essential services
• Improve employability and learning opportunities
• Stay connected with family, friends and communities
• Manage finances and daily tasks online
• Access healthcare and wellbeing support
• Build confidence and skills in using technology
• Live more independently

Emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), offer new opportunities but ensuring people have the skills and confidence to use them remains essential.

Digital participation brings many benefits, but it is important to stay safe online.  Common risks include scams, fraud, misinformation and privacy concerns.  Building digital confidence and cyber awareness can help people enjoy the benefits of technology safely.

While digital technologies bring significant benefits, it is important to recognise and manage the potential risks associated with using online services and digital devices. These include:

•  Online scams and fraud
• Privacy and data protection concerns
• Misinformation and disinformation
• Cyberbullying and online harassment
• Exposure to inappropriate content
• Digital dependency and wellbeing
• Security risks
• Rapid technological change

By developing digital skills, confidence and awareness, individuals can take advantage of the benefits of being online while reducing and managing these risks effectively.

Our vision is that every resident in Kent can access and benefit from digital technology safely, confidently and independently.

 We are committed to:

• Improving access to devices and connectivity
• Building digital confidence and skills
• Supporting accessible digital services
• Reducing inequalities
• Working collaboratively with partners across Kent