Technology donations needed to help tackle digital poverty
Blues Foundation and Bedford Blues RFC have joined the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire’s efforts to tackle the digital divide and help children and young people access technology through the third national lockdown.
We are calling on all local businesses and households to donate, where possible, any laptops or tablet devices which they no longer need which can be transformed to further support young people and their education.
There is a dire need for technology to be given to disadvantaged and vulnerable families who can’t access other support at this time. And we want to make a difference!
The University of Cambridge suggests 22% of the UK lack basic digital skills and the current pandemic widens digital exclusion further. The Office for National Statistics believe 12% of young people aged 11-18 have no internet access at all.
Both of these statistics will be highlighted exponentially with the majority of school and university students told to remain at home during this current nationwide lockdown and complete work online.
In partnership with the High Sheriff, Blues Foundation will arrange for any technology donations to be dropped off or collected (within Bedfordshire) in a COVID-19 secure manner, please contact Foundation Manager Tom Harwood on info@bluesfoundation.org.uk if you can help.
All donations received will then be refurbished by IT firm Veritas Digital Services, who will also add any necessary packages and applications which will ensure children and young people across the county have all the tools needed to complete their online learning.
WHAT CAN BE DONATED?
Laptops – must be accompanied by chargers, broken laptops can be taken.
Tablets – Please ensure you log out of all associated accounts before donating, including iCloud.
Mobile Phones – These can be taken and could help fund the refurbishments.
HOW TO DONATE:
Email info@bluesfoundation.org.uk with details of your donation and we will arrange either collection or for your donation to be dropped off.