Council donates laptops to help tackle digital exclusion across Oxfordshire

Councillor Sandra Coleman, Executive Member for Stronger, Healthy Communities, said: “Having access to a computer is increasingly essential in everyday life, whether it is for education, finding work, accessing services or staying connected with family and friends. We are pleased these laptops can continue to make a difference in our communities. By donating them through Getting Oxfordshire Online, we can help tackle digital exclusion and support people who may otherwise struggle to access technology, while also making sure valuable equipment is reused rather than wasted.”

Getting Oxfordshire Online is a partnership of local charities that refurbishes and redistributes unwanted IT equipment to local people who need support getting online.

The Council has worked with Getting Oxfordshire Online for a number of years, donating surplus ICT equipment to support their work tackling digital exclusion across Oxfordshire.

The donated laptops are at end of life for commercial use but remain in good working condition. All donated equipment has been wiped of all data and refurbished before being distributed to those in need.

John Dennis, Getting Oxfordshire Online Project Manager, said: "We are very grateful to West Oxfordshire District Council for this donation. Access to a computer is no longer a luxury, it is essential for education, employment, healthcare and staying connected with others.

"These laptops will help people across Oxfordshire who would otherwise struggle to access digital services, including families, jobseekers, older residents, people with disabilities and refugees. Every device donated helps us support more people to gain the skills, confidence and opportunities that come from being online."

By giving the laptops a second life, the donation will help reduce waste, make better use of resources and provide practical support to people who need access to technology.