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A large number of disabled people in Wales do not have internet access, and this can impact their ability to keep in contact with friends, family, and even do things such as applying for the Universal Credit. The charity Disability Wales estimates that of the over 500,000 disabled people in the nation, only 57% of households have access to the internet, which is a major reduction from other families.

This is a major concern, and the charity wants the government and other organisations to try to close the gap. There are many reasons for using the internet and getting online. Not only can people get information on financial aid programmes, but there are social and mental benefits as well.

Why internet usage is importnant

One key reason is the roll out of the Universal Credit in Wales and other area. With this occurring over the next two years, and it should be completed by 2017 at the latest, everyone will be expected to make a claim online, and this includes the disabled. If they do not have access to the internet, then they may miss out of claiming the credit or they may turn to other people for help, and this opens up the chance for more scams and the like.

Using the internet provides access to shopping as well, and people can often get discounts on household items they need. Many companies can ship supplies directly to the home of the customer, and that convenience can be a major benefit to a disabled person.

Internet access can also help with mental health issues by allowing individuals to stay in contact with friends and family. There are services such as Skype or Facebook that can help allow this to occur, and individuals can stay in contact with family in Wales or other parts of the country too.

One big problem is Disability Wales has show the gap in internet usage of the disabled is increasing, and more are being left behind. They continue to have less access, and many are also struggling to pay for the cost of service as individuals with a disability often have a low income. There is also sometimes a loss of confidence which is a factor in that lack of usage.

Another challenge is websites are often not designed with the disabled in mind, and this also prevents other challenges. They may be difficult to use or understand, the this will lead to further lose of confidence when trying to get online. Residents in Wales may also need assistive technology such as speech software, and many disabled households do not have the money to pay for this.

While the government and charities have tried to account for disability access on their websites, it still can be challenging when applying for benefits or local schemes, and therefore many people want to go directly to a Job Centre for this.

Disability Wales is trying to solve this problem by offering workshops and providing information on it. They are providing a Digital Live projects and other support to address this problem.