Disabled volunteers at risk of exclusion due to ‘digital divide’

The report, produced in collaboration with HEAR Equality and Human Rights Network and the University of Greenwich, found that disabled people are currently at risk of digital exclusion and discrimination, meaning they could struggle to access volunteering roles and opportunities.

The disability digital gap has remained largely unchanged since 2018, with nearly one million disabled adults not having internet access at home, 1.4 million saying they don’t use the internet, and about two million not owning a smartphone or computer.

Volunteering can have huge benefits in terms of wellbeing, and disabled adults show higher interest in online volunteering compared to non-disabled adults, because of its potential for improved accessibility. However, online volunteering also presents challenges that may deter some disabled volunteers.

Findings showed that organisations may be over-reliant on technology and assume people understand how to use systems and devices without adequate training and support. This can lead to indirect discrimination, as those without access are excluded from opportunities.

The availability and effectiveness of assistive devices can also be a huge factor in facilitating participation in volunteering opportunities, depending on their suitability and the level of support provided. Malfunctioning or unsuitable devices can exacerbate challenges for disabled individuals, as can a mismatch between individual requirements and the devices which are available or provided.

Professor in Work and Well-being, Daiga Kamerāde, Director of Research Centre for Inclusive Society at the University of Salford, said, “Our report found that disabled people continue to experience both indirect and direct discrimination. For some, the lack of appropriate devices, limited training, and organisational cultures that make people reluctant to seek support all imply a level of discrimination that makes it difficult for disabled adults to engage in volunteering roles”.

“The project team have developed guidelines for digital inclusion of disabled adults in volunteering which we hope will support existing good practice in the voluntary sector to reduce digital barriers. These guidelines are useful not only for improving the digital inclusion of disabled people in voluntary work but also in paid work”.

The study, funded by the UKRI Economic and Social Research Council through the Digital Futures at Work Research Centre Innovation Fund, involved disabled people who are active in volunteer group initiatives and was informed by their lived experiences. Chris P, one of these contributors, said, “The produced report and the guidelines have the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of disabled people keen to explore digital volunteer opportunities and facilitate greater access to current and future offers.”