Digital isolation: The vulnerable people left behind

Whether it's banking, food delivery or a local taxi company, finding out your favourite services are available online is normally a happy moment -- it's often faster and more convenient. However, for the most vulnerable people in society, online services for essentials such as housing, job applications and benefits can be inaccessible. "Digital isolation is when people find themselves in a position where they can't access the internet or digital media and devices as much as other people", explains Bibi Reisdorf, an assistant professor in communication studies at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. "In theory, everyone can access the internet, maybe at a library, community centre or at a friend's house, but there are different levels of access." Digital isolation is "surprisingly prevalent", according to Dr Reisdorf, with western countries seeing a rise in "mobile dependence". That doesn't mean people who are addicted to their mobile phones, it's when your mobile is your only access to the internet.