Disability voices: Digital Divide Report

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Summary of report content

The engagement for the Healthwatch Cumberland  ‘Digital Divide’ project ran from 1st August 2023 until 29th September 2023, and in total 57 people shared their experiences and feedback with Healthwatch. 44 people completed a case study, and HWC facilitated three focus groups to speak to a further 13 participants. The aim of this project was to understand the impact of the recent digital shift as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic, on the disabled community. 

Key themes: 

  • The Covid-19 pandemic increased the use of digital technology. This was either viewed as a positive step towards inclusivity, or intensified inequalities faced by people living with disabilities. 
  • During the Covid-19 pandemic, several services moved to be solely accessible online. 
  • As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic many disability specific support groups ceased to function and have not restarted following the removal of lockdown restrictions. 
  • Digital technology has helped people to maintain relationships and connections with others. 
  • Medical appointments became more commonly online than pre-Covid-19, though a desire for face-to-face appointments remains. 
  • Many older participants mentioned that they rely on younger family members to help them with digital devices and technology when they need it. 
  • Online safety was voiced to be a concern. 
  • Digital technology and devices give opportunities and creates adaptations for those who need it. 
  • The flexibility that digital technology offers, is not always utilised by services.
  • Digital technology can reduce geographical inequalities. 
  • Giving people a choice is important. 
  • For some people living with disabilities digital devices and technology can make their lives easier. 
  • Improvements are still needed to make devices and online services more user friendly

The report contains 18 recommendations about tackling digital exclusion.

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General details

Local Healthwatch
Healthwatch Cumbria
Publication date
Date evidence capture began
Date evidence capture finished
Type of report
Enter and View
Key themes
Access to services
Accessibility and reasonable adjustments
Consent, choice, user involvement and being listened to
Remote appointments and digital services
Service organisation, delivery, change and closure
Written information, guidance and publicity

Methodology and approach

Was the work undertaken in partnership with another organisation?
No
Name(s) of the partner organisation(s)
Primary research method used
Engagement event
If an Enter and View methodology was applied, was the visit announced or unannounced?
N/A

Details of people who shared their views

Number of people who shared their views
57
Age group
Not known
Gender
Not known
Is the gender identity of people in the report the same as the sex they were assigned at birth?
Not known
Sexual orientation
Not known
Types of disabilities
Physical or mobility impairment
Sensory impairment
Learning disability or difficulties
Does this report feature carers?
No
Seldom heard groups
People who are geographically isolated
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