Mobile Phones and other Technology can narrow Social Divides

A challenge to the traditional view that new technology will widen inequality in the future comes from the UK Government’s Social Exclusion Unit. A new report shows how technology is already improving life chances and public service delivery, and is being embraced by those deemed to be 'excluded groups'. Part of the success is coming from the use of mobile phones rather than computers.

For instance, mobile phones are being used by homeless people to avoid the problems of not having a permanent address, leaving a mobile number on job applications. Medical results can be texted to the patient without someone else answering the phone. Elderly folk are playing chess with friends across the world. The report "Inclusion Through innovation: Tackling Social Exclusion Through New Technologies" shows other examples of how modern technology can improve public service take-up, reconnect the isolated and provide a lifeline for those groups on the margins.

The report, published by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, argues that 'excluded' people already use technology extensively and that we need to build on this enthusiasm.

The report sets out a number of proposals and actions for government including:

* Setting out the action for Government to develop information sharing about excluded groups while building protocols and safeguarding privacy;
* Proposing the expansion of access to ICT facilities in hostels for the homeless and proposing that community centres in deprived areas be wired with broadband services. The report also recommends that local authorities should explore the potential of bundling in internet capabilities, such as e-mail and other local information feeds, when telecare systems are installed in an individual's home.
* Proposing the setting up by government of an independent unit to consolidate and promote the most efficient and effective practices using technology which are otherwise seldom evaluated.

This report is the second in the SEU's "Improving Services, Improving Lives" series which sets out to make sure that reformed public services work better for the people who need them most.

Associated Link: Inclusion through Innovation

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