A community project is asking residents across Gateshead, Tyne and Wear to donate unused laptops, tablets and smartphones to help neighbours who cannot access the internet. The scheme, run by Connected Voice in partnership with the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA), aims to provide people with the tools they need to apply for jobs, book GP appointments and stay in touch with family.
Residents can drop off devices at 16 public Tech4Communities drop‑off points across Gateshead, including Gateshead Central Library and a mix of library and community sites (some are volunteer‑led). All donated devices will be securely wiped and professionally refurbished by accredited partners before being redistributed to local community groups and individuals in need. Those with more than 10 devices should contact [email protected] to arrange a bulk collection.
The initiative is designed to bridge the gap for residents who are currently cut off from the online world. Where needed, recipients can be supported with free mobile connectivity via Vodafone’s everyone.connected programme, ensuring the refurbished gadgets can be used straight away. By recycling unwanted tech, the community is helping vulnerable residents access essential services increasingly delivered online.
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