Promoting improved connectivity in Scotland

We're keen to take our message about reducing digital inclusion to Scotland for the first time. Whilst digital skills remain high amongst the population, adults in all parts of Scotland are amongst the most likely in the UK to suffer from exclusion of some kind.

Digital exclusion is causing a growing number of problems in society. Many local councils are moving services online, so being able to access these services is important to residents. Paying for services, requesting information or making appointments are all much easier via the Internet than routing through a busy and overstretched call centre. Another problem is a lack of access to the best value services. Many utility companies now offer significantly better deals to customers who choose to manage their account entirely online.

If people can't access these services then they are potentially having to pay more than they need to. Technology developments have also brought about changes to the way we communicate with each other and consume media. Not having a fast and reliable broadband connection means millions of people are simply missing out on socialising with friends and family, finding out about the latest news or jobs or can't watch on-demand programming like the majority of the population.

Access to fast, reliable and affordable broadband remains a real problem amongst housing association tenants in particular. PCCW Global have designed solutions for both housing association, other social housing as well as assisted living accommodation. Built using robust architecture, fast and reliable connectivity is delivered to residents at a truly affordable price. The service provides a great way to improve the experience of residents, allowing them to do more online from organising their utilities, learning new skills and providing access to educational resources for children.

If rates of digital exclusion are to fall then housing associations and other providers must look to invest in improving the connectivity amongst their residents. To find out more about PCCW Global's range of solutions visit our solutions page.