Over 200 laptops gifted to get vulnerable people online

People accessing foodbanks, refugees and those experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Oxfordshire are among those getting access to 209 refurbished laptops to help them get connected.

Oxfordshire County Council has given the computers to Getting Oxfordshire Online, a charity that works in partnership with local communities to provide refurbished devices, connectivity and support to help everyone access the internet. 

The donation represents a commitment to the council’s digital inclusion strategy, which aims to tackle inequalities in the county. 

Councillor Neil Fawcett, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community and Corporate Services, said: “It’s important that in the digital world, we do not leave people behind. A laptop can make a real difference, helping people to find a job, stay connected with family and friends, and put them in touch with support they need. 

“That’s why I am pleased that we can transform so many lives with this donation. This is just one more way in which we are getting people online and helping to reduce digital exclusion in Oxfordshire.” 

The computers were provided by the county council’s IT, innovation and digital service, who ensured they were securely wiped before arranging the handover to Getting Oxfordshire Online. 

The charity not only refurbishes and distributes the devices but also helps people to access the data, training and the support they need to get online. 

It has donated over 4,200 devices and 340 free data SIMs to people who need them since launching back in 2021. 

Ben Tuppen, who leads the Getting Oxfordshire Online programme, said: “Thank you so much to the council for this significant donation of laptops each of which will help an individual or family to transform their lives whether reducing isolation, enabling education, finding work or much more. 

“We’re particularly grateful for the team’s work to set up an ongoing agreement through which we can continue help those in need benefit from end-of-life IT once it’s no longer suitable for the council’s purposes.” 

Residents can donate their personal devices too. Second hand laptops, tablets and phones can be donated at six drop off points around the county. Find out where to donate by visiting Getting Oxfordshire Online’s website. 
 

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