Learn Sheffield Supports Launch of Laptops for Kids Appeal

Launch article: https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/people/join-stars-campaign-give-back-sheffields-young-people-2973110

Laptops for Kids press release:

Technology entrepreneur David Richards, the founder and CEO of WANdisco plc, has joined forces with The Star and Learn Sheffield to launch Laptops for Kids.

The campaign aims to close the “digital divide” by supplying free computers to all pupils in need of internet access at home.

The organisers are calling on companies and organisations in the city to donate unused equipment to support the effort.

The campaign follows The Star’s successful Sheffield Learning Together supplement to support home schooling during lockdown.

Learn Sheffield is working with schools to identify those young people in need of internet access at home and will coordinate distribution of the devices.

Data software company WANdisco has launched the campaign with a donation of devices.

David Richards said: “Talent is everywhere but opportunity is not and the pandemic is worsening social and economic inequalities.

“We must stop young people falling further behind just because they cannot log on for homework. It’s a tragic waste of potential and is storing up worrying problems for the future.”

Studies into the impact of disasters show a damaging impact on educational attainment and mental health.

Councillor Abtisam Mohamed, cabinet member for education and skills, said: “Sheffield City Council understands this has been an extremely challenging time for everyone in the city, especially young people whose education is being cruelly disrupted by the pandemic.

“That’s why we are delighted to launch the Laptops for Kids campaign with WANdisco and The Star to help increase internet access for young people and close the digital divide.

“We call on companies and organisations in the city to help young people keep up with their homework and gain confidence and skills in the digital world.”

Companies and organisations should email laptopsforkids@wandisco.com to organise their donations.

Donors are invited to securely erase devices before handing them over. Alternatively, WANdisco can carry this out in partnership with data security expert Blancco, which has donated free licences in support of the campaign.

For charitable purposes, the computers will be received by David and Jane Richards Family Foundation to enable donor companies and organisations to claim tax reliefs.

In the summer, the Department for Education supplied a number of laptops to children with a social worker and Y10 children needing additional IT support.