Seven out of ten older people who do not know how to use a computer agree that employers prefer to have workers with IT skills, Age Concern research has found. However, older people are being denied opportunities to learn these skills in the workplace and in their community. 

The findings are released today to mark the launch of the charity’s UK-wide Digital Inclusion Network. It aims to plug the gap in opportunities for older people to learn how to use Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Government figures show that two out of three existing jobs and nine out of ten new jobs ask for ICT skills. However, there is age bias to training opportunities in the workplace that discriminates against older workers. Only one in five employees aged 50-59 have had IT training recently, compared to one in three 25-49 year olds. 

Once older people begin to use new technology for leisure, most want to carry on learning. However, they face barriers to keeping up their new skills as many communities lack appropriate training facilities and older people are the least likely to own their own computer. Two out of three pensioners who initially rejected using the internet said they would get online if they had the right support, assistance and learning environment. 

James Purnell MP, the Department for Work and Pensions Minister with responsibility for E-Government, voiced his support for Age Concern’s drive to engage older learners.

He joined older people at the launch held at the Design Museum, London in an interactive event where older people demonstrated how they are embracing the benefits of digital technology.

Speaking at the event, he said: "In a world that is becoming increasingly reliant upon information technology, it is vital that we ensure older people aren't left out. It is equally important that we challenge stereotypes about older people as being afraid of new technology - the popularity of the internet with 'silver surfers' demonstrates that is simply not the case.

"Internet usage can increase independence and empower people. It is an essential tool for communicating with the world. It can help to reduce social isolation - for example for older people with limited mobility or with family members abroad. That's why I think it is crucial that we support Age Concern in their work to ensure older people benefit from the potential of information technology."

Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern, said: “The Digital Inclusion Network will help older people broaden their skills for life and employment. A member of the Digital Inclusion Network will offer straightforward training using jargon-free terms. We expect 850,000 older people to benefit over the next five years, many of whom would not otherwise have the opportunity to learn.”

Mike Hughes, Head of BT’s digital inclusion campaign, said: “Peer learning environments and one-to-one training, which are the preferred way for older people to learn to use ICT, are not easily available to them on an ongoing basis in their community. The support we are giving to Age Concern will help organisations across the UK provide the best learning opportunities to older people.”

The Network, which is supported by BT, offers an opportunity for organisations to make the digital inclusion of older people a reality. Membership of the Digital Inclusion Network is open to any organisations, schools, training centres, community groups, and charities that want to offer ICT training to older people. It offers support to members through the provision of funding, training, publications and toolkits, information and advice, conferences and shared best practices.

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