You could be missing out if you're not online, expert says

People could be missing out on a lot if they are not online, according to one industry expert.

Abi Stevens from UK online centres - which provides individuals with access to computers and the internet - said being online could help the public live independently.

This could include shopping over the internet and playing games, or Ms Stevens noted that keeping up with homework and hobbies can also be achieved thanks to the web.

She added: "Both government and commercial services are increasingly moving online - and that provides both cost efficiencies and improves service quality."

But the biggest hurdle could be motivating people to take their first step online, as it tends to be something specific that sparks their interest.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics last month revealed that 73 per cent households (19.2 million) have internet access, an increase of five million since 2006.