Bar Standards Board and Regulatory Partners Commission M·E·L Research For Study on Digital Exclusion in Legal Services
We are proud to announce that we have been appointed by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) to undertake an important research project aimed at understanding the experiences of digitally excluded clients or prospective clients within the legal and probate sectors. This initiative is part of a collaborative effort that includes four key regulatory bodies: the Bar Standards Board (BSB), CILEx Regulation Ltd (CRL), Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC), and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
Commenting on the research, Mark Neale, the Director General of the Bar Standards Board, said:
”New technology presents significant opportunities for the delivery of legal services but can also present barriers for the digitally excluded. In our work to improve access to justice for everyone we believe that this research will help us to increase our understanding of the digitally excluded and how best regulators can assist them to overcome those barriers.”
In a world increasingly reliant on digital platforms for the delivery of services, the issue of digital exclusion has become a significant barrier for many. The research seeks to delve deep into the challenges faced by those on the wrong side of the digital divide and to formulate actionable strategies for service providers and regulators to enhance access and inclusion.
Elliot Simmonds, leading the study for M·E·L Research, alongside Gayle Higginson, shared his enthusiasm for the project:
“Having worked in the legal services sector across a number of projects and for a number of years, we as an agency understand the importance of these issues and as a result we are delighted to embark on this vital study alongside the Bar Standards Board and its partners. Understanding the nuances of digital exclusion is crucial in today’s society, and through this research, we aim to uncover the barriers that prevent individuals from accessing essential legal services. It is an opportunity to make a real difference in how services are provided to some of the potentially most vulnerable in our society and to play a small part in ensuring everyone has fair and equitable access to legal support when they need it.”
Digital exclusion is a multifaceted issue, encompassing lack of access, affordability, and digital literacy. This research recognises the importance of addressing these dimensions to ensure that everyone, regardless of their digital proficiency or access, can benefit from the opportunities provided by technology. By understanding the specific needs and challenges faced by digitally excluded individuals, the project aims to promote more inclusive service delivery models and regulatory practices.
As we move forward, M·E·L Research and the BSB are committed to sharing the insights gained from this study with the broader community of legal and accountancy service providers, regulatory bodies, and policymakers. It is hoped that the findings will not only inform but also inspire actionable changes that will significantly improve access to justice, particularly those currently underserved by the digital revolution.
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