DWP state pensioners to get free laptops and mobile phones in new £9.5m plan
State pensioners are set to receive free laptops and phones through a new £9.5million fund aimed at increasing internet usage. This initiative, known as the Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, is part of the Labour government's Plan for Change.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has stated that digital exclusion is preventing many people from reaching their full potential, as reported by Chronicle Live.
DSIT confirmed: " Funding will be awarded based on merit to the highest scoring applications, while ensuring as much as possible that projects are funded across all nine regions of England."
The new funding will primarily target elderly individuals of state pension age, specifically those born before 1959, who are less likely to use the internet. The programme includes providing devices such as phones and laptops to those who are digitally excluded.
Local councils and authorities will be responsible for distributing the free items. Labour Party Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: "It is unacceptable that in 2025, millions of people across the UK simply can't access the vast opportunities that technology and the online world offers."
He continued: "Digital inclusion is an essential for modern life and work, not just something that's nice to have, and it forms a critical part of our Plan for Change. We have a dedicated newsletter for ChronicleLive's money-saving and cost of living stories. It's free and you can sign up to receive it here. It will keep you up to date with all the latest money news and budgeting tips as well as stories on the cost of living crisis in our region."
Making technology widely accessible could be the thing that means a sick patient can speak to a GP remotely, or that helps a young person successfully apply for a job.
"Through this funding we're moving further to empower local leaders and groups nationwide, who are already working tirelessly to get their communities connected and change countless lives for the better," Bryant added.
The Government has launched its Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund as part of the Digital Inclusion Action Plan. This also features plans to trial a device donation programme, where refurbished Whitehall laptops will be distributed to those who need them most.
The plan identifies that elderly and disabled people, households on low incomes, and those seeking employment are among those most at risk of digital exclusion.
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