Small Acts of Kindness Impact Report 2023 - Report - Page 5
Mind the gap - Addressing the digital divide
One of the most important parts of our gift bag is the Purple Pages information pack, which is included in every bag we
distribute. They contain a wealth of carefully sourced and researched literature, signposting to services, support and
activities. Offering opportunities for social engagement and connection, they help to break the cycle of loneliness and
isolation.
In an age where often the first place we look for information is online, many
people, particularly older people, face digital isolation and exclusion. Either
due to factors such as lack of access, capacity, affordability, confidence or
simply not wishing to use the internet having not grown up in a digital age.
In 2024 the Communications and Digital Committee
report “In Focus” concluded that the groups affected
by these barriers faced “deepening isolation as society
becomes increasingly digital”.
Respondents to our request for feedback overwhelmingly feel that it is important for organisations to continue to print
information for the older generation, with 90% saying the information provided in the Purple Pages information pack was
very/ somewhat useful.
“Please keep printing telephone numbers for various things, as we have no way of contact
when we are not online and feel cut off from the world” Gift bag recipient
Every service listed has a telephone contact number, ensuring accessibility for those who don’t, can’t or won’t go online, as
we try to bridge the divide that deepens loneliness and isolation. In addition, we encourage people to share this information
with others. If the services are not relevant to themselves, the format of our information pack enables people to easily pass
it on or display in communal areas.
“Not just for myself, but with all the information that
the Purple Pages gives helps me to help others”
“I didn’t know there was so much help to be had
and often feel lonely”
“Helpful and comforting to know if we need
anything”
“It's amazing how much help is available
if people only knew about it”