1-in-5 residents not accessing internet in Conwy & Denbighshire

More people in Conwy & Denbighshire do not have access to the internet than in any other part of the UK, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics.

New data has shown that 22.8% of residents in Conwy & Denbighshire have either not accessed the internet in the last 3 months, or have never been online.

The figures have been described as “shocking” by Aberconwy AM, Janet Finch-Saunders, who said she was concerned by the number of old people unable to access services online.

Janet Finch-Saunders said:

“We live in a world where the internet is increasingly vital for attaining jobs, accessing services, and for everyday communication. And yet more than one-in-five residents here in Conwy simply aren’t going online.

“There is an older demographic here, which leaves large parts of the community without a basic understanding of how to use the internet.

“But that comes with a price, and many people are missing out on discounts for goods and services bought online – which puts them at a distinct financial disadvantage.

“This has to change, and we need a renewed focus on making sure that people are tech savvy enough to get by – and of course, on improving connectivity.”

Shadow Economy Secretary, Russell George, added:

“The internet has changed the way people go about their daily lives, and many activities previously carried out on the high street are now increasingly being carried out online.

“That’s going to become more and more isolating for people who cannot use the internet.

“It is important that the Welsh Government is offering ongoing training and support for the many thousands of people in Wales who have never been online.”