In today’s world, almost everything we do, from managing our money to accessing healthcare and staying in touch with people, happens online. For millions across the UK, getting online isn’t a simple process, which can lead to missed support, opportunities and isolation. As more services move to a digital only delivery model, those who lack access or digital knowledge risk being left behind.  

Digital access costs money. When a household budget is stretched, this access is the choice between a meal or purchasing mobile data. At Auriga, we see every day how factors such as poverty and age correlate with digital exclusion. 

For people on low income, getting online means making difficult choices and can often lead to sacrificing essentials, like food.  

• 9% of UK households struggle to afford a mobile and data 

• 8% struggle to afford broadband 

• 2 million households can’t consistently afford internet access. 

Digital Exclusion and Poverty 

Families in poverty are four times more likely to have limited internet access, often sharing one outdated device between multiple people. This often means a lack of access to manage online benefits, children struggling to complete homework, and missing out on comparison deals for household bills, contributing to financial strain.  

Digital exclusion doesn’t just mirror poverty; it deepens it, creating more of an issue. Those who don’t have access frequently miss out on cheaper online prices, job opportunities, and quick access to financial support.  

Technology Can Be Overwhelming For Many 

Nearly 3 million people over 65 in the UK are digitally excluded. Many find technology overwhelming and worry about safety or being scammed. For others, different health conditions and limited knowledge or dexterity make using digital tools difficult.  

When essential services turn to digital only, these barriers become isolation. Missed healthcare appointments and loss of community connections or support can grow from something a simple as not having the right kind of help.  

Providing Inclusive Support Services 

Digital inclusion isn’t a single issue it’s where poverty, age, health, and opportunity intersect. That’s why at Auriga Services, we believe in more than just digital support. We believe in providing people with support services that are enabled by technology and delivered by humans, providing compassion and empathy at the heart of everything we do.  

Together, we can build a future where everyone can access the support they need.