The Government and the Post Office have joined forces to provide an in-person support service for those who may struggle to access government services online.

The face-to-face service will be offered at Post Offices where staff will be able help people to verify their identity when accessing digital public services.  The Government is currently rolling out GOV.UK One Login, which allows users to have just one account, one username, one password and one identity check to use many different government services online, including accessing self-assessment tax returns, conducting a DBS check or applying for pension credit.

Alex Burghart, Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Office, said:

“While it is essential that government systems keep pace with technological change, we must ensure everyone can access them. Figuring out a new online system, and completing identity verification checks, can be daunting. That is why we are launching a new partnership with the Post Office to give more people the confidence to use GOV.UK One Login and access the vital services they need.”

The Government says that most people will be within a 10 miles radius of a Post Office branch which offers the in-person identity check for GOV.UK One Login.

Nick Read, Post Office Chief Executive, said:

“We are delighted to be extending our successful relationship with government in the identity services field.

“Post Office is the place for face-to-face identity verification in the UK. We will always remain committed to the principle that no one should be left behind in an increasingly digital world.

“Ensuring we support people and businesses with their identity requirements, whether via our EasyID app, online or in-branch means we are the one stop shop for identity services.”