UK Postal strike encourages first time internet usage
UK online centres across England have been inundated with people learning how to use e-mail and the Internet as a result of the current chaos in the postal service. The Internet drop-in help and advice centres are supporting users as they venture online to beat the current postal blues.
The postal strikes have caused a backlog of 16 million letters which has disrupted the service nationally and is expected to take two weeks to clear. These delays are forcing people to find other way to communicate. It is estimated that UK online centres in areas affected by postal disputes have seen a 25% rise in the number of visitors wanting help and advice. Managers are reporting that many of the customers are requesting information on paying bills or sending E greetings cards specifically because of the current postal problems.
Those who have previously been unable to e-mail are now deciding to do so. In addition, UK online centres have seen an increase in people paying bills and changing personal details online.
Colin Middlemiss, Marketing Manager for UK online centres, said:
“We have seen an increase in the number of people using UK online centres to learn how to use the Internet and e-mail. UK online centres are open to everyone, but are especially useful for those who don’t have a computer at home or work. Most of the things done by post can be done over the Internet and the postal strike is giving people an incentive to try it.”
Half of all UK homes now have Internet access (1). However, 38% of adults in the UK have never accessed the Internet (2). UK online centres is a Government initiative to improve access to computers and the Internet, especially for those without access at home or work.
