As part of the plans, public buildings could be used as wifi fibre hubs to provide very low cost - or even free - connectivity to nearby households. Meanwhile, second-hand hardware would be recycled and distributed to those currently locked out of the online life so many people take for granted - and training offered to those without the necessary knowledge to take advantage of it. The initiatives will be delivered through the soon-to-be-formed Preston Digital Co-operative.
The authors also warn of the knock-on effects of digital exclusion on almost all aspects of health, wellbeing and quality of life. “Digital access is essential for socialising, accessing public services, accessing education and employment, remote working and managing finances. This is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as rough sleepers and those who require mental health support in Preston. Therefore, digital poverty can push people into other forms of poverty,” the report warns.