De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) is calling on local businesses and organisations to donate unused computers, laptops and other digital items to help tackle the digital divide exposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The university is partnering with two social enterprises, SocialBox.Biz and Reaching People, to lead a project to help families on low incomes, socially isolated and elderly can stay connected online.

Prior to the Covid-19 outbreak, studies showed 22% of the UK’s population lacked basic digital skills and access to equipment – an issue that disproportionately affects those with low incomes and since the start of the pandemic, the problems have worsened due to lack of access in public spaces.

DMU is asking for the donations of old IT equipment no longer required by companies and individuals which will then be securely wiped of all data and refurbished before being delivered to those in need. Other items can also be donated, including:

  • Computers and laptops
  • Telephones and telecoms equipment
  • Conference room AV equipment
  • Desktops, tablets
  • IPads, iMacs and other Apple products
  • Screens, keyboards and cables
  • Coffee machines
  • Servers, switches and routers

To make donations or get involved, contact local@dmu.ac.uk

For more visit: https://www.dmu.ac.uk/about-dmu/news/2021/march/dmu-appeals-for-unused-tech-to-help-bridge-the-digital-divide.aspx