The project explores motivational and confidence barriers to adults’ digital inclusion in the UK, and proposes solutions to address them. By examining lived experiences, community-led initiatives, and expert perspectives, the study aims to identify psychological and social factors that deter digital engagement – such as lack of trust, interest, or perceived value – while analysing successful solutions for improvement. It seeks to provide actionable recommendations to the UK Government for addressing these barriers structurally, fostering greater digital inclusion. Using qualitative methods, the study will conduct interviews with individuals, community organisations, academics, and policymakers over three months. Insights will be framed within theories like Self-Determination Theory and Bourdieu’s concepts of social capital – emphasising a holistic, interdisciplinary understanding of digital inclusion. The findings will contribute to academic discourse and practical policymaking – including a political briefing summary – by shifting the focus from technical infrastructure to addressing the socio-psychological dimensions of digital inclusion in the UK.
Bio
Hannah will be a fellow at CAIS from January to March 2025. Hannah has hands-on experience across research, policy, and campaigns. She currently works at the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation, as their Advocacy Manager (2021-Present). Previously, Hannah worked as a consultant in menstrual health and period poverty across a range of projects such as: Policy and Campaigns at Free Periods (2020-2021); Education Programme Manager at Bloody Good Period (2019-2020); and Campaign Evaluation Researcher at Women’s Environmental Network (2020). Hannah has an international academic background in media, communications, and international development.