A PILOT scheme to provide low-cost internet access to digitally excluded households across West Dunbartonshire is expected to be launched this summer.

The local authority is in discussion with wifi companies to develop a couple of programmes that will benefit tenants living in social housing, reduce digital exclusion and lower the attainment gap.

During the housing and communities committee SNP councillor Karen Conaghan raised some questions about the council’s proposals.

She said: “With respect to our older properties is there anything we can do to assist our most disadvantaged and cut off residents in terms of progressing things for them in a digital way?

“We want to hear the voice of our tenants.

"We do that very ably but there are certain people who are excluded because they just aren’t enabled.”

Cllr Conaghan was informed that work was ongoing to address the issue surrounding digital exclusion.

One of the problems was some people didn’t have access to a device while others didn’t have wifi.

She was also told about the pilot programme due to start at the end of this summer.

Housing officer John Kerr said: “We are actively looking at developing a couple of pilot programmes within our current stock.

"We have engaged with a couple of providers out there who are looking at the social housing element.

“We would hope by the end of the summer to have something in place. It is work in progress to increase digital engagement for our tenants.”

Support service Working4U, who work with the Scottish Government, has also provided a year’s worth of free wifi to people who need it during the Covid pandemic.

Peter Barry, WDC’s head of housing and employability, added: “I’ve asked my team to work to explore opportunities to provide extremely low cost wifi.

“To me it is ridiculous that households are paying £30-40 a month for their broadband.

“It is essential particularly when it comes to closing the attainment gap.

“This is about what we as a council can do to create a different climate.

"We are working on that and will get back to you with an update.”