SUPPORTING RESIDENTS TO ACCESS TECH FOR AS LITTLE AS £50 THROUGH TO DECEMBER 2022
Written by Joanne Watson from Community Computers
As many as 1.2m residents in Greater Manchester could be digitally excluded; it is estimated that 1 in 3 of those digitally excluded lack access to digital equipment.
Not being able to get online means people can become more socially isolated and are less likely to access essential support services. There is a real digital divide – the need for low-cost and accessible, quality digital devices is greatest amongst those with limited financial means.
Community Computers is a non-profit initiative born and operated from registered charity, Renewal North West (1145056). Donated IT devices are repaired, recycled and refurbished through the scheme in order to provide them back into the community at low-cost to tackle digital exclusion, unemployment and e-waste.
In response to the rising cost of living in the UK, the project is further supporting families and individuals affected by these challenging times and have announced that until the end of December 2022, eligible residents will be able to obtain fully refurbished and licensed laptops and desktop PCs for as little as £50.
One resident who has benefitted from a refurbished device said:
“It’s incredibly helpful …It’s enabled me to complete an online course that otherwise I would have struggled to do. It will enable my older school child to get any computer or online schoolwork done. When I try to return to work later this year, when my youngest starts school, it will be a big help then, as for health reasons, I may end up needing to work from home or be computer/internet based which would not be possible without this laptop. It’s a big weight off my shoulders.”
If you or someone you know would benefit from a low-cost device, call 0161 476 2777. Devices are limited to 1 per household, and you’ll need to show evidence of low-income status.
If you, a friend or a family member would like to know more about getting online, you can contact Manchester Council’s Digital Inclusion team by texting 07860 064 128 or emailing digitalinclusion@manchester.gov.uk for free and friendly support to help you get online.