Information and communication technologies (ICT) have changed many aspects of the society in which one lives. The initial impact was centered on the workplace, but subsequent effects have begun to transform communication, leisure, entertainment, information, education and training. Given the transformational impact ICT has had on many aspects of people's lives, it was no surprise when the Government chose to acknowledge it as a "Skill for Life", along with literacy, numeracy and English for speakers of other languages (ESOL). Many hundreds of thousands of adults already take part in ICT courses and programmes. Although many adults have taken part in ICT education and training programmes, it is widely accepted that many adults do not identify ICT as relevant to their lives. Research shows that many adults urgently need to improve their ICT skills. The author argues that the simple acknowledgment of ICT as a Skill for Life will not in isolation change the attitudes and perception of these adults, but it can act as the catalyst for change that will contribute to reducing the number of adults socially and economically excluded by a lack of ICT skills. ICT, a Skill for Life offers a major opportunity to ensure that many millions of people are not disadvantaged in the information age. It provides many possibilities to enhance the current provision through a contextual approach that shows learners that ICT is relevant to their lives. It will need a considerable effort to achieve but will prove well worth the investment.