Have you heard of Sandwell Digital Donation? This partnership between Sandwell Council, Black Country Housing Group (BCHG) and social enterprise Repc Ltd encourages businesses and residents to donate unwanted PCs, laptops and tablets to be wiped, refurbished and given a second lease of life to households and organisations within Sandwell.

As well as recycling, the scheme aims to narrow the gap between people who have full access to digital technologies and those who have little or no access.

Sandwell Digital Donation has so far given a total of 100 devices to seven local community groups. The devices will be used to support refugees, school children, veterans and young carers to get online and improve their digital skills.

‘These computers will make a huge difference’

David Newell is project manager at Brushstrokes Community Project in Smethwick – one of the first organisations to receive a donation.

David said: “We really appreciate the donation from Sandwell Digital Donation, the need for our service users to develop their digital skills is more important than ever and these computers will make a huge difference meaning we can support more people to build their skills and confidence in the coming months”.

Katy McAllister, project manager at BCHG said: “We are delighted with the response to our new project and thankful to the local businesses who have already donated, enabling us to support community groups like Brushstrokes.

“The last few years has been very difficult for those living in Sandwell, but we are hopeful that through this project we can help more community groups and individuals.”

Sandwell Digital Donation has already received a great response from businesses across the Black Country – but more devices are needed. For information on how to donate, see our Sandwell Digital Donation page.