Article

Digital exclusion was a problem long before the Covid-19 pandemic. However, since the pandemic began, there has been increased reliance on access to digital services.

Inequalities in access to digital and online resources and activities are closely associated with other dimensions of inequality, and in many cases exacerbate these. Altogether, this suggests a deepening of the impacts and inequalities associated with digital exclusion, and a pressing need for long term public policy solutions.

This research sought to explore the extent and nature of digital exclusion in the North East, to identify policy responses, and to outline a strategic framework for addressing digital exclusion in the North East.