Digital exclusion affecting thousands in Scotland

The number of people in Scotland who are digitally excluded has risen by almost 60 per cent since 2022, new data has revealed.  

According to Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) the number of its clients who lack the skills to use the internet has risen from 1,932 in 2022 to 3,065 this year.

The advice network said it is “extremely concerned” by the steep increase, highlighting that those left behind are at risk of losing jobs and benefits, as well as suffering from poor mental health.

CAS spokesperson Kyle Scott said: “The numbers affected are higher than many people think and include people from all ages and backgrounds. We see them every day in the CAB network.

“The consequences of being digitally excluded vary from being unable to apply for jobs or benefits, or unable to access consumer services like price comparison or anti-scam websites. 

“It also excludes you from staying connected and in touch with loved ones, so it can have a big impact on people’s mental health and loneliness. Those affected include older or disabled people and those on low incomes, many of whom face complex and vulnerable circumstances.”

Bridging the digital divide was a key focus in the government's recovery strategy post-pandemic.

In 2020, it launched its flagship Connecting Scotland initiative, which outlined its vision to create a digital opportunity for everyone in the country. However, it has now been almost a year since the programme announced its last funding round.

Scott added: “We have long urged governments and other agencies to make sure that essential services are available by phone and in-person as well as online. We’d also like to see greater provision of free training in digital skills.”

The new data comes after Scottish Labour pledged earlier today to fix the tech talent pipeline.

The party has vowed to ensure Scottish students are among “the most digitally literate in the world”.