Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Older people who are not online are at risk of being excluded as the use of digital technology increases across society, the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales has warned.

Commissioner Helena Herklots CBE said she has been told by some older people that they’ve had difficulties booking online health appointments or even paying for car parking because of it.

Ms Herklots said: “For a significant number of older people who are not online, the shift towards digital has created new issues and barriers that can prevent people from accessing information and services, getting out and about and doing the things that matter to them – something reflected in what older people have been telling me at engagement events and through the findings of my recent research survey.”

The commissioner has appealed for older people who have experienced digital difficulties to contact her and share their experiences.

She said: “Hearing these voices and experiences will enable me to identify areas where further action may be required to ensure older people who are digitally excluded can access the information and services they need, and support my work to influence the practice of key public bodies, including local authorities and health boards.”

The appeal comes after the publication of formal guidance in 2021, which sets out what action councils and health boards should take to ensure access to information and services is available through non-digital means.

Data from the commissioner’s office shows a third of people aged 75 and above are not online, while a third of over-60s don’t use a smartphone.

Older people can contact the commissioner’s office to share their experiences in writing, or through the commissioner’s website before September 1.