Everyone should have fair and equal access to services
Age UK is campaigning to make sure everyone can access the services they need - so that being offline doesn't mean being overlooked.
Age UK is campaigning to make sure everyone can access the services they need - so that being offline doesn't mean being overlooked.
Public services are rapidly 'going digital'. If like 2.3 million older people in the UK you aren't an internet user, it’s becoming harder – and in some cases impossible – to access day-to-day necessities such as banking, making NHS appointments or even just paying for car parking.
But it's not just those who aren't online. Plenty of people would just prefer to handle their finances, their bills or their health matters in person or over the phone. No one should feel forced to perform important tasks online if they don't feel comfortable.
Older people who aren't or choose not to be online are being locked out of essential services. It's discrimination - plain and simple. And it poses real risks to people's health, wellbeing, finances and ability to participate fully in our society.
It’s time to make access to public services fair, for everyone.
If you or someone you know would like to sign the petition offline you can download a paper copy or request that we send one out. Email campaigns@ageuk.org.uk or write to Freepost Age UK campaigns (no stamp required).
Age UK is committed to helping more older people make the most of the digital world through programmes that increase their skills.
But there will always be people who don't feel confident - or simply don't want - to use key services like paying their council tax, or booking NHS appointments online. And it's not right that they're not being given another option.
That's why is Age UK is urging the Government to end the discrimination against people for not being online.
Find out more about the situation facing older people who are not online and what we believe needs to be done to help them.
Let's end the offline penalty for older people.
Paul Farmer, Chief Executive of Age UK, examines the many ways older people are being excluded by technology.
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