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<p>The government recognises that digital skills are important for adults of all ages,
and we are committed to improving their level of digital skills to support active
participation in society.</p><p>From August 2020, the department introduced a digital
entitlement for adults with no or low digital skills to undertake specified digital
qualifications, up to level 1, free of charge. The new entitlement mirrors the existing
legal entitlements for English and maths, and puts essential digital skills on an
equal footing in the adult education system, as a third basic skill. The department
introduced new Essential Digital Skills qualifications (EDSQs) at entry level and
level 1 from August 2020, funded under the digital entitlement. EDSQs are based on
the new national standards for essential digital skills and are designed to meet the
diverse needs of adults with no or low digital skills, reflecting different learning
needs, motivations and starting points.</p><p>To further enhance the essential digital
skills offer for adults, from August 2023 the department introduced new digital Functional
Skills qualifications (FSQs), which have replaced FSQs in Information and Communication
Technology. Digital FSQs have standardised content and assessment, providing a benchmark
of digital skills for employers. The department published the final subject content
for digital FSQs in October 2021.</p><p>The government recognises that formal qualifications
are not appropriate for everyone. That is why the department also funds community
learning and other non-regulated learning, such as building confidence in essential
digital skills, through the Adult Education Budget. Many local authorities and other
further education providers are already delivering these courses that help equip adults
with the essential digital skills they need for work, life and further learning.</p><p>More
information about essential digital skills and other government funded training opportunities
can be found here: <a href="https://www.skillsforcareers.education.gov.uk/pages/skills-for-life"
target="_blank">https://www.skillsforcareers.education.gov.uk/pages/skills-for-life</a>.</p><p>
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