Which groups are affected

some groups are particularly affected, with a concentration of certain demographics within the digitally excluded

The socially isolated tend to have more limited access to, and use of, the internet, devices and online services. The economically disadvantaged also have limited access but are more likely to try and seek out access in place like libraries. those who fall under both categories suffer most disadvantage and have little or no use at all. studies show that overall non-users are increasingly older, less educated, more likely to be unemployed, disabled, and socially isolated.

Ipsos MORI identified employment status, educational qualification, and age as strong predictors of weather or not a household has internet access.

It is worth noting that all groups are not homogeneous and there can be differences within populations. It's also important to take into account changing trends over time. People digitally disengaged in the past are different from those now, so approaches to tacking it must be adaptable.

Older people have consistently made up the largest proportion of internet non-users, and pattern of internet use by age is replicated when looking at digital skills.

A survey from citizens Advice Scotland 2018, showed that of respondents aged between 65 and 79 years:

Only 25% used the internet often

46% never used the internet

18% have difficulty using a computer

16% cannot use one at all