Organisations such as Deloitte and Vodafone, alongside the leading charity Good Things Foundation, are uniting with the government to encourage organisations to donate pre-loved technology to digitally excluded Brits.
Organisations can sign up to the IT Reuse for Good charter on GOV.UK from today to work with their chosen charity partner to distribute their pre-loved tech.
The Charter encourages organisations to change how they manage and dispose of IT assets, with the aim of increasing device donations to the 1.5 million people in the United Kingdom who lack access to basic laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
The importance of technology access in a growing digital world
With technology transforming essential services such as healthcare access, job applications, and housing, the government is doubling down on its commitment to improve skills and access to technology for all.
Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “Britain is leading the way when it comes to technological advancements, with everyday essentials such as doctors’ appointments and job applications becoming increasingly digital.
“However, to maximise the full potential of technology, we need to bring everyone along with us on this journey.
“This Charter represents a significant step forward in our mission to bridge the digital divide and create a more sustainable approach with pre-loved tech.”
Implications of the digital divide
Research also shows that digitally excluded individuals face higher costs for items such as home insurance, train travel, and food, paying up to 25% more on average than online consumers.
Ryan, a single father from Essex, struggled without access to a laptop. He explained: “Job searching felt impossible – I couldn’t keep up and felt like I was falling behind.”
The charter outlines principles for organisations to adhere to, including ensuring that pre-loved tech is securely wiped, professionally refurbished, and fit for purpose, so it can be provided free of charge to those who need it.
Through a donation from Vodafone’s Great British Tech Appeal to the National Device Bank, an initiative led by Good Things Foundation, Ryan received a laptop that transformed his prospects. Now, he can actively search for jobs, attend online training, and build a better future.
Addressing the e-waste crisis with pre-loved tech
Alongside addressing the digital divide, the IT Reuse for Good Charter tackles the e-waste crisis head-on by giving pre-loved tech a second chance.
“With 1.5 million adults lacking essential devices and 1.45 million tons of e-waste discarded yearly, we’re proud to lead the charge for a more inclusive and sustainable future,” stated Helen Milner OBE, CEO of Good Things Foundation.
“The Charter builds on the success of our National Device Bank and will be a game-changer, unlocking thousands of devices.”
Rich Marsh, Responsible Business Director at BT Group, added: “As well as being a leader in sustainability for more than 30 years, at BT we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that digital inclusion projects are having across the UK, supported by our networks, social tariffs and digital skills programmes.”
He concluded: “We warmly welcome the IT Re-Use for Good Charter, which brings these two things together and gives a second life to our pre-loved tech.
“Now we’re committing to donate even more devices, helping play our part in providing people with the tech they need in today’s digital society.”
