While this transformation brings convenience and efficiency, it also risks leaving some people behind. A recent publication from Ofcom suggests that 5% of adults over 16 do not have access to internet in their homes.
Additional research conducted in the North East of England found that older adults with disability, no or low-level education, smaller household sizes and lower income also contributed to digitally exclusion.
Locally, a survey was conducted in Charnwood in 2020 that found that 8.5% of residents did not have internet access and that 21% did not have essential digital skills for everyday life.
At Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) Leicestershire, our focus this June is on understanding how transformative technology can act as both an opportunity and a barrier, particularly for those experiencing digital exclusion. The term ‘digital exclusion’ used in our context refers to the lack of digital access, digital use, digital confidence, or digital skills.
Navigating a digital employment landscape
The Get Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland (LLR) Working programme details a ten-year roadmap that represents the next phase of a shared commitment to improving economic opportunities and tackling the barriers that prevent too many of our residents from accessing good quality work. As part of this, we are exploring how job seekers navigate today’s increasingly digital employment environment.
The process of finding and securing work has evolved significantly. Job searches are now largely conducted online, applications are submitted through digital platforms, and communication with employers often happens exclusively through email or online systems. While these changes have streamlined recruitment processes, they also assume that everyone has access to the necessary tools and skills.
Our emerging review highlights that some groups face significant challenges, including:
- Limited access to digital devices
- Poor or unreliable internet connectivity
- Lack of confidence or skills in using online systems.
Identifying who is most at risk
To better understand these challenges, we are working closely with both job seekers and professionals in the employment support sector to explore evidence-based solutions.
We are also working with Northumbria University to identify and prioritise the groups most affected by digital exclusion.
This partnership is helping us better understand who is most at risk as services and information continue to move online. More importantly, it enables us to identify where targeted support can make the greatest difference.
Turning insight into action
Our goal is to develop practical, evidence-informed recommendations that make digital transformation more inclusive.
This includes:
- Improving access to information
- Strengthening digital skills and confidence across communities
- Designing services that remain inclusive and accessible to everyone.
By bringing together research, local insight, and strong partnership working, HDRC Leicestershire is supporting efforts to ensure that technological change enhances opportunities rather than widening inequalities.