The Isle of Wight Council has donated 170 decommissioned laptops to the Digital Poverty Alliance to help children and families who do not have access to digital devices.
The Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) will distribute the laptops to children across the Island to improve digital inclusion.
Reducing the digital gap
The Isle of Wight Council launched the initiative earlier this year and contacted the Digital Poverty Alliance to arrange the donation.
The DPA leads the campaign and encourages local businesses to donate unused laptops and tablets so more children can take part in online learning and digital life.
Educational deprivation
More than 6,600 households on the Island face educational deprivation.
Over 3,500 residents face employment challenges, which increases the impact of limited digital access.
A very simple application and verification process
Elizabeth Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of the Digital Poverty Alliance, said,
“We are pleased to be partnering with the Isle of Wight Council. We want to ensure that we get these devices in the hands of children and families who need them.
“Once the laptops we have received have been processed, our team will set up a very simple application and verification process.”
Supporting local families
Roger Brown, Strategic Manager ICT & Digital Services at the council, said,
“This is an excellent initiative that puts old council devices, that are no longer fit for work purposes in the hands of local children in need.
“While these devices are older, we ensured they are in good working order so children can have access to the digital world, helping them grow and learn.
“We are really proud and happy to support this amazing initiative.”
The Digital Poverty Alliance team speaks directly with schools and charities to help spread the word of the scheme.
The team also uses flyers and paper application forms to reach families who do not have internet access.
How to donate
Further details about the Digital Poverty Alliance donation schemes are available on their website.
