In June of last year, I was asked to take on the role of “Champion for Digital Inclusion” and despite this somewhat ridiculous title I jumped to do something to help the 10 million people in the UK who have never used the internet and in particularly the 4 million who are socially and digitally excluded.

I have now announced the Race Online 2012 initiative – a challenge to get the UK as near to 100% internet enabled by the London Olympics as possible.  To achieve this, the Race Online 2012 team will unite private, public and third sectors by recruiting 10,000 Partners to help inspire, educate and train the 4 million who are currently offline.

The social and economic impact of Race Online 2012 could be extraordinary. Migrating customer communications, recruitment and training online will save businesses and industry millions each year.  Add into the mix the social benefits of getting the 4 million online – from better access to education, employment, health and communication, plus increased enjoyment and community cohesion – and we can quickly see the vital importance of making digital inclusion a priority for the UK.

As a Race Online 2012 Partner you are part of this incredible cross-sector movement.  As you develop and deliver your Partner Promise please be inspired by the amazing projects and digital initiatives that are already underway across the UK.  Every organisation – no matter the size – has the power to make a contribution. Whether it’s giving time and resources, encouraging peer-to-peer and intergenerational support amongst your workforce and their families or even by helping people in your local community get online – we can all make a difference if we work together.

In recent months, I have been busy meeting people who share our vision and goal.  I have witnessed many fantastic digital projects already working hard to bridge the digital divide and I thank you and your organisation for joining our Race Online 2012.

Being able to use the internet changes and improves lives.  For example, Anna-Marie  from our Peoples Taskforce said:  

“I thought computers were for the upper-classes.  The World Wide Web is immense: there’s no stopping what you can do. I want all my friends to have the opportunity I’ve had, to absolutely have a total transformation.”

To be one of the first countries in the world to establish a fully online, internet enabled society will benefit us all enormously.  We should not be content with the status quo – the moment to empower citizens through technology is now. Together, I know we can succeed.

Thank you for your help.

 MARTHA LANE FOX