Breaking barriers: The role of digital accessibility in reducing digital poverty

Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the Digital Poverty Alliance, explores the role of digital accessibility in tackling digital poverty, highlighting the importance of inclusive design and accessibility standards in creating equal opportunities for education, employment, and daily life in an increasingly digital world.

For millions across the UK, navigating an increasingly digital society can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Nearly 9 million adults lack basic digital skills, and 16 percent of the population remains unable to engage fully in today’s digital-first society.

Digital exclusion affects access to education, employment, and essential services, with 90 percent of job seekers finding roles online. A stark reminder of the profound challenges faced by many in accessing digital resources is the fact that one in seven adults and one in five children live in digital poverty.

Alarmingly, individuals in digital poverty are three times more likely to miss out on job opportunities, and students without digital access are at a significant disadvantage, with 70 percent of homework and study resources now requiring online access.

However, the barriers to digital inclusion extend far beyond devices and connectivity. Inaccessible digital environments isolate individuals further, shutting them out of opportunities to learn, work, and connect. Accessibility is not an add-on or a luxury; it is a fundamental necessity that underpins inclusion, equality, and opportunity in the digital era.

The importance of accessibility standards

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 Level AA provides a globally recognized blueprint for inclusive digital spaces. These guidelines are essential for creating websites, apps, and digital tools that are usable by everyone, including individuals with disabilities, older adults, and those with specific needs. Prioritizing accessibility enhances user experience, strengthens engagement, and establishes organizations as leaders in fostering equitable digital environments.

Accessibility is a matter of design and intent. For example, integrating features like screen readers, captioning, and keyboard navigation ensures that people with visual, hearing, or motor impairments can access digital resources. Meanwhile, clear layouts and simplified navigation improve usability for all, including individuals with lower literacy levels or limited technological proficiency. When accessibility is prioritized, organizations create digital tools that empower individuals to access information and opportunities on their own terms.

Accessibility as a cornerstone of digital inclusion

Accessible design removes barriers to information, communication, and opportunity, enabling individuals to participate fully in education, employment, and community life. This principle is especially critical for those disproportionately affected by digital exclusion, such as individuals with disabilities, older adults, and low-income families.

For instance, 78% of older adults who face digital exclusion report that inaccessible platforms deter them from using essential online services, leading to greater isolation. Additionally, over 50% of people with disabilities say that accessibility barriers prevent them from using online banking or shopping services, which are now essential for daily living.

By embedding accessibility into their digital strategies, organizations can unlock potential, foster independence, and create pathways for millions to thrive in modern society. Accessible design also benefits businesses by widening their audience, improving customer loyalty, and enhancing brand reputation. Studies have shown that accessible websites perform better in search engine rankings, while inclusive practices attract a more diverse workforce, driving innovation and growth.

A call to action

Embedding accessibility into digital strategies needs to be a priority for organizations across all sectors. Accessibility is not a box to tick or a compliance exercise; it is a true reflection of values and a commitment to equity and inclusion and every effort matters in its pursuit.

Moreover, prioritizing accessibility helps address the root causes of digital poverty. When individuals can confidently navigate digital platforms, they are better equipped to access education, apply for jobs, and connect with community support systems. By eliminating these barriers, we can bridge divides and build a society where no one is left behind.

Driving change

By investing in and encouraging collaboration between organizations, policymakers, and community leaders, we can forge ahead with initiatives that turn digital inclusion into a reality for everyone. Prioritizing accessibility is one thing, but we need to actively work to advance accessibility, tackling the barriers of digital exclusion with practical, impactful solutions.

Accessibility goes beyond compliance – it is about building a society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. As organizations continue to drive ahead, transforming their day-to-day functions and operations thanks to technological innovations, they’re leaving many behind. Bridging the digital divide is crucial to ensure that everyone has the chance to fully engage in today’s increasingly digital world.

In a digital world, digital access should be a right, not a privilege, but this can’t be achieved alone.