As the UK becomes ever more connected, it is tempting to believe that everyone has equal access to the digital world. Yet, for millions in rural and underserved communities, this is far from reality. At this year’s Labour Party Conference, the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) will host a critical panel discussion titled “Are we really all online? Debunking the myth around our digital society.”
Digital poverty is not merely a technological gap – it is a pressing societal issue with far-reaching consequences. Such an important issue needs immediate solutions – but instead, we are seeing a growing digital divide. With more and more services being pushed online, more people are at risk of exclusion – and it is vital that we retain hybrid options, without the assumption that all families have access to unlimited fast connections, the latest devices, or the skills and behaviours to use new services.
With 90% of teenagers expected to complete homework and coursework online (but one in five in digital poverty), healthcare growingly moving online, and 90% of jobs only available online, there are more proposals on the horizon that risk worsening the issue. A key example is the debate on television, and whether TV should be moved to internet-only broadcast, removing the terrestrial signal and leaving those without superfast broadband disadvantaged and at risk of being cut off from news, information, and entertainment. We are proud to be working with Broadcast 2040+ on this fringe event, as part of our commitment to their campaign to save traditional television broadcasts until at least 2040 – and beyond.
We believe that at the Labour Party conference, this panel is a key opportunity to raise awareness of digital poverty, the difficulties this causes, and the opportunities. Newly elected MPs and policymakers need a clear understanding of the scale and depth of digital poverty. The discussion will explore not just the challenges but also the real, actionable solutions that can make a tangible difference to communities across the UK. These solutions – focused on improving access, digital literacy, and affordability – are critical for enabling people to thrive in today’s economy, and are also a social imperative. Alongside this, we must understand that for many getting online isn’t a practical choice, and with concerns over scams, misinformation and lack of trust, many lack the confidence to get online – so face-to-face and traditional methods of communication must be maintained.
In the context of the Labour Party’s broader focus on poverty alleviation and economic growth, addressing digital poverty is key. Ensuring equitable digital access can help unlock untapped potential within underserved communities, driving productivity and fostering inclusive economic growth. By integrating digital inclusion into the party’s vision, Labour can create the conditions for broad-based prosperity while reducing poverty.
The panel, sponsored by Broadcast 2040+ and Arqiva, will feature industry experts and policymakers who understand the complexities of this issue:
- Dan Aldridge, Labour MP for Weston-super-Mare
- Laurie Patten, Director of Strategy and Regulation, Arqiva
- Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network
Chaired by Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the DPA, the panel will challenge the assumption that everyone is online. The reality is that large segments of the population remain disconnected from the digital services many take for granted. This disconnect has a profound impact – limiting access to education, job opportunities, healthcare, and public services – and we must challenge the belief of a universally shared digital experience.
This panel discussion is an opportunity for policymakers, party activists, and civil society leaders to understand how digital exclusion affects real people in real ways. It is about making the case that addressing digital poverty is not just a matter of closing gaps in infrastructure, but about ensuring fairness and opportunity for all. The role of government, industry, and local authorities will be central to this conversation, with a focus on what can be done to build a more inclusive society.
By bringing these issues to the forefront, we aim to spark a thoughtful, informed dialogue on how to create lasting, sustainable solutions. Through targeted policy, investment, and collaboration, we can make sure that no one is left behind in the digital age, and that access to technology becomes a fundamental right, not a privilege, whilst recognising that for some, digital access may not be the solution. This is a critical moment for the future of digital inclusion, and we are committed to making progress towards a more connected and equitable society.
Join us
Tuesday, September 24
12:30-1:30pm
Room 10, ACC Liverpool
This event is located inside the secure zone. Attendees must have a full conference pass for entry.