This content will only be shown when viewing the full post. Click on this t nnext to edit it. One of the guest speakers at our recent AGM was AbilityNet, the pioneering UK charity, transforming the lives of older and disabled people. Working with organisations of all types and sizes, AbilityNet strives to create a digital world that is accessible to everyone. The insightful presentation on digital inclusion in Leicester highlighted an often-overlooked, but crucial issue that needs addressing.
AbilityNet explained that its work on digital inclusion is driven by the fact that 7.9 million people in the UK lack essential digital skills. Older adults are the least confident online, and disabled people are even more likely to be offline.
AbilityNet has over 450 Tech Volunteers, a free helpline (0300 180 0028), and provides assistance both at home and remotely.
AbilityNet highlighted My Computer My Way (MCMW), an interactive tool offering easy to use guides to the accessibility features built into every desktop PC, laptop, tablet and smartphone operating system. It helps users to adjust settings and participate fully in the digital world. The charity also provides blogs, factsheets and free webinars to support online learning.
Beyond individuals, AbilityNet supports community projects and organisations, offering digital inclusion and accessibility consultancy, including accessibility audits, strategy development, research, and evaluation frameworks.
It was raised that digital exclusion risk is influenced by age, disability, health, household, connection, language, education and employment.
The charity concluded with the thought that certain groups are more vulnerable to being digitally excluded, impacting access to services and opportunities, but that we can all work together to reverse this.
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