Industry Not Doing Enough For Whole Of Society

Many older people in Britain do not understand new digital technology, says recent research by media regulator Ofcom.

The study, which included more than 3,000 respondents, showed 77% of people over 65 and 73% of retired people do not keep informed about new developments in technology and are the least likely group in society to understand or own new digital technologies.

The research also showed that the industry is failing to address the media access problems experienced by people with visual or hearing difficulties, and that low-income families in the UK are more likely to be unaware of digital switchover than wealthier families. The report also revealed that low-income households are twice as likely than the national average to feel they can not afford the internet due to cost.

According to the survey however, the awareness of digital switchover has doubled since 2005 to 52%, but 60% of low-income households, earning £11,500 a year or less, are unaware of the drive towards a digital future.

Colette Bowe, chairman of the Ofcom Consumer Panel, said: “There have been some encouraging improvements since last year, especially around people’s awareness of digital TV and broadband, but it is clear that certain groups within society are not reaping full benefit from the communications market.”

According to the findings, friends and family are still the most important source of information and advice for almost half of UK consumers, but people over 65 are significantly less likely to know someone who could advise them on the switch to digital technology, be it broadcast or internet.

Bowe added: “The panel is conducting further research to understand the barriers and motivating factors for older people, which we will release in July this year. Our research provides a vital stock take for the communications industry and shows there are still problems which it needs to address.”

Ofcom: 020 7981 3040 www.ofcom.org.uk