The study consulted members of the public to understand the types of digital goods, services and skills required for digital and broader social inclusion. Stakeholder interviews, including policymakers and civil society organisations, explored the utility and possible barriers to implementing MDLS in Scotland.
Scottish households underscored the importance of having a combination of goods, service and skills. Surrounding this, they highlighted the role of support and infrastructure.
Issues of affordability and difficulties acquiring skills can act as key barriers to digital engagement. People living in rural parts of Scotland can be especially disadvantaged by patchy connectivity and limited access to support.
Stakeholders were supportive of an MDLS for Scotland but said that sustained funding and efforts to embed it firmly into policy would be needed to put it into practice.
The report for the first phase of research can be found here.
The second phase of research, involving interviews with families facing potential challenges in meeting MDLS, and further stakeholder engagement, will provide additional insights. The second report is expected in April 2025
The digital needs of families with children: a Minimum Digital Living Standard for Scotland
New research, commissioned by the Scottish Government, sets a Minimum Digital Living Standard (MDLS) for households with children living in Scotland