More internet safety support needed for people with learning disabilities

People with learning disabilities are being left to navigate the internet and online world without the support they need, according to a new report from the Digital Care Hub that found 85% of people with learning disabilities do not receive regular help using online services.

Between January and March 2025, Cyber Champions carried out research, commissioned as part of Digital Care Hub’s Better Security, Better Care programme, to explore how working-age adults with learning disabilities use the internet for personal purposes, the risks they face, and the support they and their carers need to stay safe online.

Participants consistently highlighted the positive role that the internet plays in their lives. Their top use was staying connected with friends and family, followed by entertainment.

Despite this, barriers to digital inclusion remain widespread. Although 94% of participants reported they could access online services, further probing revealed that those who said they “don’t want to” often lacked confidence or understanding, rather than interest.

The report found that 85% of people with learning disabilities do not receive regular help using online services. Support was often limited to assistance with banking, making purchases, and accessing care plans.

Internet and barriers for people with learning disabilities

Secondary research cited in the report also confirms these challenges. A government study found that 15% of disabled individuals had never been online, compared with just 3% of non-disabled people, and that poor accessibility remains a significant barrier.

While participants expressed confidence in using the internet, a clear gap existed between their perception and actual knowledge of cyber safety. For example, 53% rated themselves as 4 or 5 out of 5 for confidence in using online services, but only 35% rated themselves similarly for staying safe online.

Michelle Corrigan, Director of Digital Care Hub, said “We heard clearly from people with learning disabilities and their carers: digital access is important to them, and so is feeling safe. This report offers insights and ideas that can help the whole sector work together to improve confidence and build inclusive support. By sharing what’s already working and listening to lived experience, we can all help create a digital care environment that works for everyone.”

The Online but unsupported research also found:

• 84% of people said they would find cyber safety training helpful—but nearly two-thirds had never received any outside school or college
• Only 31% knew how to spot a fake email
• 29% did not know how to change privacy settings
• Over 85% of people with learning disabilities said they don’t receive regular help to use online services
• One in four paid carers had received little or no digital safety training in their role.

Recommendations for the social care sector

The report sets out five clear recommendations for the adult social care sector:

1. Develop accessible cyber guidance – including easy read guides, step-by-step videos, and clear explanations of passwords, privacy settings and online safety tools.
2. Provide tailored cyber safety training – using real-life scenarios, theatre-based learning, and content built around people’s interests and experiences.
3. Deliver relevant training for paid carers and support staff – focused on practical skills such as recognising scams, managing device security, and supporting safe online behaviour.
4. Offer targeted support for unpaid carers – helping families understand risks like sexting or romance fraud and feel more confident offering online guidance.
5. Establish a communication and engagement plan – to share new threats, celebrate success, and keep the whole sector learning together.

Samantha Leonard, Director of ARC England – the umbrella body for organisations supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, said: “We welcome this important research, which echoes what we hear from our members across England. People with learning disabilities want the same digital opportunities as everyone else, and with the right support, they can use technology in safe, meaningful and independent ways. This report helps shine a light on the practical steps we can all take to make that happen.”

The Digital Care Hub will work with care providers, carers and people with lived experience to put the findings into practice and share learning across the sector.

An Easy Read version of the report is available at www.digitalcarehub.co.uk/OnlineButUnsupported

Alison Bloomer

Alison Bloomer is Editor of Learning Disability Today.

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