Ofcom and BT are among the organisations involved in a new group designed to promote the use and benefits of broadband in the UK.

The Digital Participation Consortium, which includes BT's Chief Executive Ian Livingston and Ofcom Chairman Colette Bowe, is hoping to encourage people to get online and enjoy the advantages it offers.

Representatives from the likes of the BBC and Channel 4 are also included in the group, alongside Digital Britain MP Stephen Timms.

Discussing his involvement, Mr Timms said: "The benefits to being online - access to online health, financial, recruitment and communication services - can significantly enhance a person's quality of life both economically and socially."

He added that the project will "ensure all the UK can enjoy the benefits of the internet for a brighter digital future".

Earlier this week, Digital Champion Martha Lane Fox released a study which revealed people without broadband access are missing out on savings of up to £560 a year due to the availability of cheaper deals for utilities and other matters online.