1 November 2005

Technology is helping to close the gap on social inequality, according to a new report out today.

According to the government's Social Exclusion Unit, technological advances are actually helping to improve the lives of the more disadvantaged.

Excluded groups have welcomed new innovations into their lives, the report finds.

Mobile phones have allowed people without a permanent address to have a point of contact when looking for work, therefore avoiding the stigma of being homeless.

Many elderly people have embraced the web as a way of communicating with friends across the world and banishing feelings of isolation.

The report published by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is entitled "Inclusion through Innovation" and looks at ways to further encourage enthusiasm for technology in all sectors of society.

"The government is committed to ensuring that the e-government agenda should be delivered to meet the needs of every citizen, including and especially the most excluded groups, and not simply be focused on the e-literate or those able to afford PCs and broadband at home," concluded Jim Fitzpatrick from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

© Adfero Ltd

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