Bridging the Digital Divide in Gloucestershire

The digital divide refers to the inequalities in access to digital devices, reliable internet, and the skills needed to use them. In Gloucestershire, this divide is not just about technology; it’s about social and economic opportunity. Those left behind face barriers to essential services, job opportunities, and even social connection ¹

While Gloucestershire generally enjoys a high standard of living, digital exclusion persists, especially among vulnerable groups and in rural or deprived areas. Key facts include:

• Connectivity Gaps: Of the 328,303 premises in Gloucestershire, about 1.43% still lack access to superfast broadband (≥30 Mbps), and 17.25% lack access to gigabit-capable broadband. Rural and low-income communities are most affected ¹
• Digital Skills Deficit: Nationally, 8.5 million people lack basic digital skills. In Gloucestershire, this could mean around 89,000 residents – especially older adults and those in deprived areas – struggle with digital literacy ¹
• Youth and Education Inequality: About 14% of young people aged 8–25 nationally lack access to suitable devices for learning, with 4% lacking both a device and home internet. In Gloucestershire, this suggests around 25,000 young people are at risk of falling behind in education ¹
• Poverty and Deprivation: 19,415 residents (3.1% of the population) live in areas among the 10% most deprived nationally, making them more likely to be digitally excluded ¹
• Older Adults: The population aged 65+ has grown by 26.8% since 2010, increasing the risk of digital exclusion among older residents ¹
• Disability and Health: 25% of people with a disability or health condition lack essential digital skills, limiting their access to services and employment ¹

• Infrastructure: Some rural areas still lack reliable broadband or mobile coverage.
• Affordability: The cost of devices and internet contracts can be prohibitive for low-income households.
• Skills and Confidence: Many people, especially older adults and those with disabilities, lack the skills or confidence to use digital technology.
• Awareness: Some residents are unaware of local resources or support available to help them get online ²

The consequences of digital exclusion are far-reaching:

• Social Isolation: Those not online may feel disconnected from friends, family, and the wider community, leading to loneliness and poorer mental health.
• Employment Barriers: Many jobs are advertised and applied for online. Without digital skills, people face greater challenges finding work and advancing their careers.
• Educational Disadvantage: Students without internet access or devices miss out on vital learning resources, widening the achievement gap.
• Access to Services: Increasingly, essential services – from healthcare to council support – are moving online, making it harder for digitally excluded people to access what they need.
• Financial Exclusion: Online banking, shopping, and comparison tools can save money, but only for those who can access and use them.

Groups most likely to experience digital exclusion in Gloucestershire include:

• Older adults
• Disabled people
• Carers
• Refugee and migrant communities
• Residents in rural or isolated areas
• Low-income households
• Children in care and care leavers ²

Gloucestershire County Council and its partners are working hard to close the digital gap:

1. Digi Hubs

The countywide Digi Hubs initiative brings digital support directly into communities. Run in partnership with local organisations, these hubs offer free, tailored help with digital skills, device access, and internet connectivity. The hubs are designed to be welcoming, safe spaces where people can learn at their own pace, supported by trusted community partners ²

2. Device Recycling and Social Tariffs

The council provides grants, recycled devices, and promotes affordable “social tariffs” for broadband to help low-income households get online ³

3. Digital Skills Training

Through libraries, voluntary groups, and community partners, residents can access digital skills workshops and one-to-one support, helping build confidence and capability ³

4. Targeted Support for Vulnerable Groups

Special initiatives focus on older adults, disabled people, and care leavers, ensuring they have the devices, connectivity, and support needed to participate fully in digital life ³

5. Collaboration and Innovation

The council works closely with the NHS, schools, and voluntary sector to ensure digital inclusion is part of wider strategies for health, education, and social care ³