Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what provisions are in place for older people with disabilities and who live in rural communities who may struggle with digital systems.

Everyone should be able to benefit from the digital world — from saving on everyday bills to finding better jobs and accessing vital services like the NHS

Last February we published the Digital Inclusion Action Plan, setting out the government's first steps to ensure everyone in the UK – no matter their background – can fully participate in our digital society

Since then, we have launched the £11.9 million Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund with £764,020 in Scotland, £440,368 in Wales and £267,249 in Northern Ireland. Helping more people across the UK get the access, skills and confidence to get online.

The fund is currently supporting 85 community‑led projects across England, designed to support locally delivered, highly tailored and targeted interventions that meet the needs of digitally excluded people, including older and disabled users

We remain committed to ensuring all public services are accessible and inclusive – with published best practice to make sure websites and apps work for everyone, alongside providing alternative routes – like in-person and telephone support – for those that need them.