Nanette Milne, Scottish Conservative MSP for the North East has called on the Scottish Government to act to help increase digital participation among people over 65.
The North East MSP raised the issue with SNP Cabinet Secretary for Culture Fiona Hyslop MSP.
Nanette Milne, Scottish Conservative MSP for the North East said:
“Figures from Ofcom show that the level of broadband uptake in Scotland is just 61% of the population. This is the lowest of any nation in the UK, and 10 percentage points below the UK average of 71%.
“There are already a number of very good local groups including the Silver City Surfers in Aberdeen which work to give North East residents over 55 the opportunity to learn about basic computing including the use of email and the internet.
“Given the fact that increased digital participation can improve people’s quality of life, boost economic growth and allow more effective delivery of public services I believe it is important to look at additional steps to help increase digital participation among people over 65 and for support to be given to particularly target those who currently have no access to technology.”