Cornwall Included in £11.9m Digital Skills Funding as Thousands Still Lack Basic Online Access

Cornwall is among the areas set to benefit from new government-backed digital support, as figures show thousands of people across the South West still lack the basic skills needed to get online.

The update comes as the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) marks one year since launching its Digital Inclusion Action Plan, which aims to help more people access devices, improve digital skills, and get connected.

Cornwall Part of National Digital Push

As part of the plan, Cornwall is included in work led by the Good Things Foundation, which is helping develop a framework for councils and community organisations to improve digital inclusion.

The project, running in Cornwall alongside other areas, will gather evidence and share lessons on how to better support people who are digitally excluded.

Across the South West, a number of other programmes are also being funded, including projects supporting older people, young people, and those facing barriers to employment with digital skills training and access to devices.

18% in South West Lack Basic Digital Skills

Research by Lloyds Banking Group found that 18% of people in the South West do not have essential digital skills for work.

The government says its action plan is designed to address this by improving access to technology and providing training in communities.

Over One Million Supported Across the UK

Nationally, more than one million people have been helped to get online in the first year of the plan.

This includes support for people in rural areas, those out of work, and older people, with efforts delivered through a mix of government, charities and industry partners.

More than 22,000 devices such as laptops, phones and tablets have also been donated through schemes designed to get unused technology into the hands of people who need it.

Funding Supporting Communities

The government has invested £11.9 million into more than 80 digital inclusion programmes across England, including projects active in the South West.

These range from community-based training and mentoring to initiatives helping people access online services, apply for jobs, and build confidence using digital tools.

Government Response

Secretary of State Liz Kendall said:

“We want everyone in the country to be able to take advantage of opportunities of being online. Whether that is staying connected with family and friends, finding work, accessing government services or getting better prices for everyday goods.

“Our digital inclusion efforts are already changing people’s lives for the better. But we are determined to go even further so we can build a future that works for all.”