The UK has launched a Digital Inclusion Action Plan to improve digital service access, addressing the needs of 25% of the population with low digital skills. Key initiatives include partnerships for identity proofing, a Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, and compliance standards for accessibility. The plan also acknowledges user preferences for government or private digital IDs to ensure inclusivity and accessibility in public services.
The UK has introduced a Digital Inclusion Action Plan aimed at enhancing public service delivery and ensuring broader access to government services. With approximately 25% of the population lacking digital capabilities and 1.6 million individuals offline, the plan seeks to facilitate digital engagement through improved identity proofing options and support mechanisms.
A key initiative under this plan is a collaboration between Gov.uk One Login and the Post Office, utilizing Yoti’s facial biometric technology to simplify identity verification. This approach has successfully registered over 30,000 users, allowing them access to essential services such as Basic Disclosure and Barring Service checks and Veterans Cards, with post office verifications achieving a 92% success rate.
Additionally, the Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund is established to promote local initiatives enhancing online service uptake. This includes a device donation scheme providing repurposed laptops for those in need, along with the formation of a Digital Inclusion Action Committee to oversee progress.
The plan aims to expand the variety of services compatible with Gov.uk One Login. Furthermore, industry partners will be encouraged to adhere to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Level AA to ensure inclusivity and accessibility in digital service design, although compliance among digital ID service providers remains under scrutiny.
Yoti CEO Robin Tombs emphasizes the future where individuals will possess a government-issued digital ID or a digital wallet from private sector providers. He acknowledges that some users may prefer private wallets due to privacy concerns or distrust in government systems. However, he cautions that unnetworked private wallets could struggle to achieve the necessary market presence for businesses to adopt them effectively.
Reinforcing this, Tombs highlights that Yoti’s collaboration with the Post Office allows swift transitions to networked digital IDs, enhancing user convenience and security in identity verification.
The UK’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan aims to enhance public service access by addressing the barriers of digital exclusion. By leveraging partnerships and promoting compliance with accessibility standards, the initiative seeks to increase digital participation among the population. Furthermore, the focus on both government-issued and private digital IDs recognizes the necessity of choice and trust in the evolving digital landscape. Overall, these efforts may significantly enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of public services.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
