Laptop appeal helps bridge digital divide

Generous people in the North East have pledged to donate nearly 200 laptops and tablets to help children learn from home during lockdown.

With schools closed as part of the latest coronavirus restrictions, there are concerns that many families don’t have access to technology for online learning.

Sunderlandbased firms Rebuyer, which recycles IT equipment, and Code, a digital skills training academy, have linked up with local organisations to enable people to pledge equipment for the Laptops for Kids campaign.

The companies have launched donate digital. co.uk – where people in the region can donate laptops, tablets and PCs to bridge the digital divide.

After being launched on Thursday, nearly 200 devices have already been pledged.

The campaign is in conjunction with Northumbrian Water and the Northern Powerhouse Partnership.

According to the Northern Power house Partnership, there are at least 55,000 families in the NorthEast without access to a laptop, tablet or desktop computer.

Simon Howatson, chief executive of Code and Rebuyer, said: "The response from people across the North East has been overwhelming and nearly 200 devices being pledged in 24 hours has exceeded our expectations.

“We will data wipe machines, upgrade the equipment and use our channels to distribute the equipment to children that require it most.”

Donate at https :// donatedigital.co.uk/