Disabled children risk digital exclusion

Disabled children at risk as digital exclusion remains widespread

Nine in ten families raising disabled children on low incomes are either digitally excluded or at risk of digital exclusion, according to new research from Family Fund.

The charity’s report, based on responses from 660 families across the UK, highlights the growing importance of digital access for education, communication, social connection and independence, while warning that many households are struggling to afford the devices, internet connections and specialist software their children need.
 

Technology is no longer a luxury

Family Fund found that 93% of respondents were either digitally excluded or at risk of exclusion because of factors including financial hardship, limited access to suitable devices and a lack of digital support.

Almost nine in ten parents and carers said they were struggling to afford internet access, digital devices, apps and assistive software. More than half reported difficulties paying for broadband services, while some said they were cutting back on essentials such as food and heating in order to stay connected.

The findings come as more public services, healthcare systems and benefit applications move online, increasing concerns that those without reliable digital access may be excluded from essential support.

 

Vital for learning and communication

For many disabled children, technology provides much more than entertainment.

Nearly seven in ten families said access to online learning was essential, particularly where children are unable to attend school regularly because of illness or disability, are educated at home, or rely on assistive technology to participate in lessons.

Parents also highlighted the role of tablets, specialist software and communication tools in helping children develop skills, express themselves and engage with the world around them.

Family Fund says disabled children often gain unique benefits from digital inclusion, including access to communication aids, educational resources and technologies that support independence.
 

Tackling isolation

The report also found that digital technology can help reduce loneliness and social isolation.

Many families said online gaming, messaging and video calls allow disabled children to maintain friendships when physical barriers, illness or mobility challenges make face-to-face interaction difficult. More than half of respondents described online gaming as essential for their child.

For some neurodivergent children, personal devices also provide an important way to manage sensory overload and anxiety, helping them feel more comfortable during travel, medical appointments and other stressful situations.
 

Call for long-term solutions

Family Fund is calling for greater action to ensure digital access remains affordable and inclusive for families raising disabled or seriously ill children.

Lizzie Shelmerdine, Head of Research at Family Fund, said digital inclusion should be viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury.

She warned that digital access underpins education, social wellbeing and developmental opportunities for disabled children, while also helping parents manage healthcare needs and access support such as Carer’s Allowance.

The charity argues that long-term solutions are needed to help families get online, build digital confidence and remain connected as society becomes increasingly digital.

According to Family Fund, digital technology can be transformative for disabled children, supporting communication, learning, friendship and independence while helping to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing.
 

Family Fund bridging the digital divide

Family Fund is part of the Digital Services Consortium and the National Digital Inclusion Network, working to bridge the digital divide in communities across the UK.

The charity’s Discover Digital Support Programme includes the annual Discover Digital summer festival, an accessible three weeks of fun-filled, creative workshops, tailored for disabled or seriously ill children and young people of all ages and abilities and their siblings.

In 2025/26, 19% of all grants provided by Family Fund were for tech items, alongside other essentials for parent carers such as funding for white goods or family breaks.

To read more about Family Fund and its grants and services, visit Family Fund (external link will open in a new browser tab or window)
 

Article ends – click to return to top or check out related resources below

Further reading and resources

You can read the full report here (external link will open in a new browser tab or window)

Digital exclusion amongst older and disabled people

Who will be your digital carer?

Make sure you don’t miss out on news from Independent Living

return to top