Organizations such as Deloitte and Vodafone, alongside the leading Charity Good Things Foundation, are uniting with the government to encourage organizations to donate pre-loved technology to digitally excluded British people.
Starting today, organizations can sign up for IT reuse for gov.uk’s excellent charter and work with selected charity partners to distribute ready-made technology.
The Charter encourages organizations to change the way they manage and dispose of their IT assets with the aim of increasing device contributions to 1.5 million people in the UK who have no access to basic laptops, tablets and smartphones.
The importance of technology access in a growing digital world
With technologies that transform essential services such as health access, recruitment applications and housing, the government is doubling its commitment to improving skills and access to technology for everyone.
Telecom Minister Chris Bryant said: “When it comes to technological advancements, the UK is leading the way with increasingly digitalised daily necessities such as physician appointments and recruitment applications.
“But to make the most of the possibilities of technology, we need to take everyone on this journey.
“This charter represents an important step forward in our mission to bridge digital disparities and create a more sustainable approach with pre-loved technologies.”
The meaning of digital disparity
Research shows that individuals who are excluded digitally have higher costs for items such as home insurance, train travel, food and more, and pay up to 25% more on average than online consumers.
Ryan, the father of one Essex, struggled without accessing his laptop. He explained: “I felt that job hunting was impossible. I couldn’t keep up and felt like I was behind.”
The charter outlines the principles that an organization should adhere to. This can be provided free to those who need it, to ensure that pre-loved technology is safely wiped out, professionally refurbished and fitted for their purposes.
A donation from Vodafone’s Great British Tech Appeal to National Device Bank, an initiative led by the Good Things Foundation, led Ryan received a laptop that transforms prospects. Now he can actively search for jobs, participate in online training and build a better future.
Dealing with pre-loved technology to combat the e-waste crisis
Along the digital divide, IT reuse for superior charters tackles the e-waste crisis head-on by giving pre-loved technology a second chance.
“With 1.5 million adults each year, we are proud to lead a more inclusive and sustainable future billing with essential devices and 1.45 million tonnes of e-waste disposal,” said OBE Helen Milner, CEO of the Good Things Foundation.
“The Charter is based on the success of National Device Bank, and is a game changer, unlocking thousands of devices.”
Rich Marsh, responsible business director at BT Group, added: “Like being a sustainability leader for over 30 years, BT has seen firsthand the positive impact that digital inclusion projects have had across the UK.
He concluded:
“Now we are committed to donating more devices and play a role in providing people with the technology they need in today’s digital society.”
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