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“I was isolated and couldn’t communicate”: digital exclusion in figures

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“I was isolated and couldn’t communicate”: digital exclusion in figures

In today’s digital society, connectivity is essential to almost everything we do. Being online facilitates financial management, social connections, access to work and education, and can help us stay safe and healthy.

But despite its importance, a significant number of people in the UK are unable to connect to the internet. This digital exclusion can have far-reaching consequences.

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“In the UK, around 2 million households do not have access to the internet and many more lack the digital skills needed to take advantage of all the benefits technology can bring – from paying a bill to accessing education services or employment opportunities. As our society becomes increasingly digital, there is still sadly not equal access to connectivity, digital skills or devices for all,” said Nicki Lyons, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director at Vodafone UK.

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Regional inequalities are also causing problems for people and businesses across the UK. The prevalence of “5G dead spots” – where there is no reliable signal indoors – is worsening digital poverty.

  • 800,000 (pdf) – The number of people living in Britain’s most deprived rural communities who could see huge benefits from the rapid rollout of 5G standalone (5G SA) technology.

  • Almost half (46%) of all deprived rural areas in Britain have no 5G coverage, compared with just 2.7% of deprived areas in urban centres.

  • 47% of SMEs in rural areas Experiencing connectivity issues.

  • SMEs from all sectors could achieve this £8.6 billion in productivity savings every year with 5G-enabled technology.

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Vodafone is helping to bridge the digital divide by donating devices and connectivity to those in need, as well as working with partners to provide digital skills training.

“At Vodafone we are committed to leaving no one behind. To date we have provided free connectivity, devices, access to social tariffs and digital training to 2.6 million people and businesses and we are committed to reaching 4 million by the end of 2025,” says Vodafone’s Lyons.

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  • Until now, 2.6 million Individuals and businesses have benefited from free connectivity, devices and digital training from Vodafone.

  • 1.3 million free SIM cards They have been donated through the National Data Bank, “like a food bank but for mobile data”, and through many other charities, including the Trussell Trust.

Find out more about Vodafone’s commitment to helping 4 million people and businesses overcome the digital divide here

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