The government today launched its ‘Get Started’ campaign in an attempt to encourage non-internet users to visit the web.
According to a recent survey from the Office of National Statistics, some 38% of the UK population have never accessed the internet (see
Internet Usage Up 16% In 2002, Says ONS). This has raised fears that the so-called ‘digital divide’ is widening to the detriment of poorly skilled workers and low-income families.
This latest campaign, led by the government-backed service UK online seeks to make the internet accessible and appealing to previously excluded groups. These include lone parents, the elderly, ethnic minorities and individuals with disabilities.
Free internet starter sessions will be offered at more than 8,000 online centres across the UK until the end of June. The campaign has the support of various organisations including the BBC, BT, Dixons, Granada, Intel and Microsoft.
At today’s launch, Patricia Hewitt, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry said: “The Get Started campaign is truly innovative and provides an excellent model for how we in Government should be working with the private and voluntary sectors. Together we will not allow the digital divide to grow.”
Last week, the Countryside Agency said that steps should be taken to roll out broadband in more rural locations so that local communities can fully benefit from the internet (see Countryside Appeals For Broadband Injection).
