Bedford Blues tackle digital poverty by becoming tech donation hub

The charitable arm of Bedford Blues – the Blues Foundation – have kicked off 2021 with a new initiative to help tackle “digital poverty” in the town.

Local businesses and households are being asked to donate any unwanted laptops or tablet devices which they no longer need which can be transformed to further support young people and their education.

The University of Cambridge suggests 22% of the UK lack basic digital skills, while The Office for National Statistics (ONS) believe 12% of young people aged 11-18 have no internet access at all.

Both of these statistics are highlighted further with the third lockdown preventing many young people attending school or college.

There is an added bonus for the individuals receiving these donations, with IT firm Veritas upgrading all donations and installing vital educational packages to help young people with their education away from school.

The Blues Foundation have enlisted the help of the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire to arrange for any technology donations to be dropped off or collected in a COVID secure manner.

What can be donated?

The Blues Foundation will consider taking any technological donations, but there is a particular drive for laptops, tablets and mobile phones.

Laptops must be accompanied by a charger, but they don’t particular have to work as they can be repaired and passed on.

Tablets and mobile phones are also high on the list of needed donations as they can be used to help with education; while mobile phones can be sold on to help with funding.

How do I donate?

You can e-mail info@bluesfoundation.org.uk with details of your donation and the Foundation will arrange either collection or for your donation to be dropped off.

This is the latest charitable drive from the Foundation, who formed in early 2020, as they are also encouraging the Blues community to take part in ‘Try January’.

Despite lockdown restrictions, the Foundation is encouraging members to keep up the pace, with the help of The Training Company.

There is even a £100 prize on offer to the most-improved individual with the four week programme aiming to improve physical and mental wellbeing throughout the winter months.

With the Championship rugby season still scheduled to begin in March, the Foundation continues to work hard to improve the lives of Bedfordians, with this latest drive helping improve children’s education.

More information on the vast array of charity activities can be found at bluesfoundation.org.uk/

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