Digital ID systems under consideration in the UK: Implications for Vulnerable Communities

Author: Sheetal Frank, MA

February 27, 2026

HRRC acknowledges that digital ID cards may contribute to efficiency and security but calls for the government to implement inclusivity and fairness for vulnerable communities at risk of digital exclusion. We further emphasise the importance of protecting privacy and data rights and upholding human rights principles of non-discrimination and equality as digital ID systems become increasingly embedded in everyday life.

Proposal of Digital ID card [Digital ID scheme explainer graphic Crown copyright via Open Government Licence v3.0]

The UK has recently proposed plans to introduce digital ID cards, which were initially announced in September 2025 by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as a mandatory requirement; however, this was later dropped and will now be proposed as a voluntary option.

The aim is to ensure that employers can check for evidence of the right to work in the country, deter illegal employment for migrants, and provide easy access to services like banking, healthcare, and renting. Plans are in place with design and technical details, improving efficiency and speed so people can access services promptly, safely, and securely.

The digital ID card will be a form of personal identification, similar to passports and driving licences, with a digital version that can be saved in a smartphone’s digital wallet and is designed to easily prove age, residency, and the right to work in the UK. 

The digital ID will include:

• Name

• Date of birth

• Nationality or residency status 

• Photo

While the government intends for the card to be a positive change, civil liberty organisations, such as Amnesty International, highlight concerns about whether the introduction of digital ID cards can create new risks of discrimination, particularly for older generations who may not have access to digital systems and could struggle with new technology. Major concerns have also been raised regarding the dangers of identity theft, hackers, and data breaches. 

According to a report by Ofcom, 6% (1.7 million) of UK adults do not have access to the internet, particularly those from the 75+ age group. Some of the reasons identified were due to cost, complexity, fear of online theft, and a lack of interest. 

Academic stakeholders suggest that digital solutions need to be accompanied by social and economic policies that address wider social inequalities. A digital rights organisation, Open Rights Group, campaigns for the rights of vulnerable communities impacted by digital exclusion and warns that 'intrusive surveillance' is most likely going to affect those from lower-income households, people with disabilities, and migrants due to a lack of data protection and discriminatory automated decision-making.

As the UK government moves forward with plans to introduce the digital ID card to prevent illegal employment and create efficiency with identity verification for public or private services, it must consider the human rights concerns for those communities who are at risk of being excluded from a society reliant on digital systems, which can be difficult to avoid even if voluntary. The government has a responsibility to consider alternative options and accessibility for vulnerable communities. 

---

Glossary 

• Academic Stakeholders – Individuals or groups of people who have a particular interest in policies and operations of an educational institution.

• Accessibility – Ensuring that services and technologies can be used by all individuals regardless of age, digital skills, disabilities or affordability.

• Civil Liberty organisation – Independent organisations that advocate, protect, and promote human rights and freedoms.

• Data Breaches – Exposure of sensitive data or personal information.

• Digital Exclusion- The lack or inability to use or access digital systems and the internet causing the feeling of being isolated in the modern age. 

• Discrimination- Unjust and unfair treatment based on age, disability, gender, race, religious beliefs, and sexual orientation.

• Hackers- Individuals who can illegally access digital devices, systems, and software to gain unauthorised access.

• Identity Theft- Illegal use of a person's personal information, such as name, date of birth, address, and financial information, to commit fraud and participate in illegal activities.

• Illegal employment – An individual who does not have the legal right to work in a specific country.

• Implications- The possible outcomes or conclusions that can be caused due to a policy or action

• Intrusive surveillance – Close monitoring of individuals through devices like cameras, microphones, and digital systems.

• Migrants- A person who moves to another country or place to work or for a better quality of life.

• Ofcom- (The Office of Communications) is an independent regulatory and competition authority for the UK's communication industries, overseeing broadcast regulations, online safety, and acts in the interest of consumers and citizens.

• Open Rights Group- A digital rights campaigning organisation which promotes rights to privacy and free speech online and advocates for a fair digital environment, ensuring technology supports justice.

• Social inequality- Unequal opportunities and power among different groups in society, causing inequality in income, education health, and social status based on social class and discrimination.

• Voluntary - A process that is done through an individual's free choice and is optional.