Residents are encouraged to donate their replacement computer equipment to help the people of Stockport get online as part of a new program.
The DigiKnow Alliance, which works to fight digital exclusion in Stockport, Greater Manchester, is encouraging residents and businesses to donate old equipment to help those in the community who are not online or who do not have a suitable device to access the internet .
Partners Renewal North West and Amshire IT Support have joined the program to overhaul donated redundant computing equipment.
Recycled donations will also be used to maintain the DigiKnow equipment library operated by Stockport Council and the residents who fail, including families with children who have difficulty accessing live classes, job seekers and the socially isolated, free Provides loans for equipment.
Anyone who donates equipment can rest assured that both organizations ensure that the data is stripped of all data before it is overhauled.
Councilor Kate Butler, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focus and Engagement, said: “I would like to thank these two organizations for their help in implementing these initiatives.
“These are exciting programs that are helping more Stockport residents get online while providing so many other benefits to the wider community and the environment.
“The Stockport Council will donate computer equipment that we no longer use, but the programs will not succeed without donations from companies and individuals across Stockport.
“If you have computer equipment that you no longer use, please donate it so we can help as many people as possible access the Internet and make sure no one is left behind. We really believe these initiatives deserve all of our support. “
Renewal North West, a local charity, runs the Community Computers initiative, which provides training and work experience in IT recycling skills for the long-term unemployed.
To donate replacement technology to the system, residents can donate to any open Stockport library or Renewal North West store in Shaw Heath.
Groups and businesses can arrange bulk collection of items by contacting them on 0161 476 2777 or through their website: communitycomputers.co.uk.
Amshire IT Support recycles corporate donations that are distributed to families with school-age children through the DigiKnow equipment library.
Wesley Downs, Executive Officer of Renewal North West, said, “We are passionate about breaking down barriers. Community Computers is committed to combating long-term unemployment and digital exclusion. We’re extremely excited to have partnered with SMBC, the Digiknow Alliance, and Stockport Digital Device Library to bring more access to digital devices in Stockport.
“However, the success of our work depends on sufficient IT donations, all of which are handled by our professional and secure asset management service.”
Dave Taylor, General Manager of Amshire in Cheadle Hulme, said, “We know some companies will be concerned about data and data erasure.
“We offer our security and data erasure services. Together with Renewal North West, we pride ourselves on helping where we can.
“Schools in particular are in need as home learning and lack of equipment can prevent some families from engaging and feeling connected, especially during lockdown.”
