Access to the Internet is a Social Justice Issue

Northern Ireland has the highest rate of non-internet users on these islands at 14.7% (Office of National Statistics, 2021. Digital 2021: Ireland).

An email address and internet connectivity is becoming a necessity as more and more services such as banking, support for rising energy costs and accessing benefits e.g. Universal Credit, move to digital only or digital first. MoneySavingExpert and others are predicting a price rise of up to 14% in broadband prices from April this year, making connectivity to the Internet an affordability issue. Meanwhile Ofcom is encouraging telecom providers to do more to support people on low incomes through social tariffs and other initiatives.

Social tariffs are cheaper broadband and phone packages for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and other benefits. Some providers call them ‘essential’ or ‘basic’ broadband. You can find information on the latest tariffs on Ofcom’s website. Social tariffs do not necessarily equate to poor broadband speeds.

Other initiatives supporting people to get online include the National Databank, which is providing free data to 500,000 people in need via Good Things Foundation’s network of community partners, in partnership with Virgin Media O2, Vodafone and Three. Vodafone is also offering charities free SIMs that provide 20GB data and unlimited UK calls and texts for 6 months through their everyone.connected programme.

Finally, once connected, people need the skills to navigate the Internet safely. AbilityNet has a team of tech volunteers who provide free IT support to older people and disabled people of any age, anywhere in the UK. Their helpline is 0800 048 7642 or email enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk

Libraries NI are providing face-to-face and virtual events and Supporting Communities also offer digital skills help.  

Advice NI is one of a number of organisations commissioned by Ofcom to boost online literacy skills in local communities. We will be training up volunteer Digital Champions to deliver sessions for older people (50+) on using online services, avoiding scams and how to identify misinformation. For more information, please contact anne@adviceni.net.