At Help Harry Help Others, we’ve always listened closely to the voices of the families we support. One message we’ve heard time and again is how isolating and overwhelming the digital world can feel for those affected by cancer, especially for those that dont have access to a computer, or those that don’s know how to get on line.
Whether it’s struggling to access online appointments, fill in digital forms, or simply stay connected with others—digital poverty is creating new barriers for people at a time when life is already difficult enough.
What Is Digital Poverty?
Digital poverty is when someone doesn’t have access to devices, reliable internet, or the skills and confidence to use online tools. In today’s world, where more and more healthcare, benefits, and support services are moving online, being digitally excluded can have a huge impact on someone’s health and wellbeing.
According to Ofcom, 1.5 million UK households still don’t have access to the internet, and 1 in 5 adults lack the basic digital skills to navigate online life. For people affected by cancer—who may already be facing physical, emotional, and financial challenges—this digital gap is even wider.
Why It Matters in Cancer Support
When someone is diagnosed with cancer, it can feel like the world shifts overnight. In this digital age, here’s how digital poverty affects their journey:
Missing out on healthcare – More NHS services are now accessed through the NHS App or online portals. Without support, patients may struggle to book appointments, manage prescriptions, or get updates about their care.
Falling behind financially – Many benefits applications and grant forms are now online. For those unfamiliar with the process or without internet access, this adds extra stress at an already overwhelming time.
Increased isolation – Staying connected to family, friends, or support groups is vital during treatment and recovery. Digital exclusion increases loneliness and anxiety at a time when emotional support is more important than ever.
Our Response: Digital Health Days
To help bridge this gap, we’re proud to join forces with Smartlyte and the NNS and NHS to offer Digital Health Days at our Drop-In Cancer Support Centre. These sessions are designed to give people:
Access to free laptops and mobile data
Simple, step-by-step training to get online safely
Support using the NHS App, filling in forms, and accessing vital services
Confidence to connect and take control of their care
On Monday 23rd June we held a digital health day where thanks to Smartlyte, NNS and the NHS, our service users were taught how to get on line and use the NHS app. Now that their level of digital competency has been assesed, the service users will now benefit from further sessions to help them be on line safely.
Each session is friendly, free, and fully supported—no tech experience required.
Why Your Support Matters
We believe that digital access is no longer a luxury—it’s a lifeline. By tackling digital poverty, we’re helping families gain the tools they need to stay connected, informed, and empowered during some of life’s hardest moments.
With your help, we can continue to provide this vital support and ensure that no one faces cancer alone or offline.