The British government is to offer low-cost computers to low-income households as part of a scheme to help encourage millions of people in the UK to get online.
The scheme will see refurbished computers available to buy from just £98 with subsidised Internet connections available for £9 a month.
The scheme, which was reported by the BBC, is part of the Race Online 2012 project, this aims to reach out to the 9.2 million adults who aren’t online yet in the country.
“Motivation and inspiration are still two of the biggest barriers [to using the internet], but clearly perception of price is another big deal for people,” Martha Lane Fox, the UK’s digital champion, told the Financial Times. “A good price point is certainly part of what helps people get online.”
Race Online 2012 aims to “make the UK the first nation in the world where everyone can use the web”.
The refurbished computers will run open-source software such as Linux but will come with a flat screen monitor, keyboard, mouse, dedicated telephone helpline and free delivery. They will be sold through UK Online centres. These are training establishments that offer basic computer and Internet courses to help people who have not used computers or the Internet before.
The £9 a month subsidised broadband has been negotiated by Race Online 2012 and will be provided through USB broadband dongles, so there is no requirement for people to have to pay extra for a telephone line. More money can be saved by paying £18 for a three month subscription.
The organisation’s research suggests that people can save up to £560 a year by shopping online and having access to websites such as uSwitch.com. You can find out where you local UK Online centres are here.
