Cost-of-living crisis forcing some Leeds households to stop using the internet

The cost-of-living crisis is forcing some Leeds households to stop using the internet, it has emerged.

Families are facing a stark choice between renewing a broadband contract and putting food on the table, local councillors were told on Monday.

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With society increasingly reliant on the online world, there are concerns around the impact of rising digital poverty in some of Leeds’ poorer areas.

The issue was raised at a scrutiny meeting on Wednesday, during a debate about digital inclusion and access to technology in Leeds.

Cost-of-living crisis forcing some Leeds households to stop using the internetCost-of-living crisis forcing some Leeds households to stop using the internet
Cost-of-living crisis forcing some Leeds households to stop using the internet

Asked by one councillor if there was any evidence of families switching off their internet as a cost-saving measure, Amy Hearn, from the council’s digital inclusion team, said: “The answer to that is ‘yes’.

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“We’ve seen that through our partners, especially those in the most economically deprived areas of the city.

“For a lot of people, it’s simply a choice between spending £20 (a month) on extending their wi-fi contract when it comes to an end, or putting food on the table.

“That’s a real decision a lot of people are having to make.”

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Councillors were told about the work of the national databank, which is supported by some of the leading mobile phone networks.

The scheme is effectively run like a food bank for mobile data, where those unable to afford internet access can benefit from someone else’s unused monthly data, which can be donated.

Ms Hearn added: “It’s not as good as having wi-fi, but it is something.”

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Leeds City Council set up a digital inclusion programme in 2015, in an effort to improve local people’s online access and skills.

In the eight years since, it’s become one of the “most successful, high-profile and well-respected” such schemes in the country, a report going before the council’s infrastructure and investment scrutiny committee said.