The Council is launching a new programme to help reduce the digital divide in Coventry called the #CovConnects Device Bank.
The #CovConnects Device Bank, which launches on the 14 June, will allow organisations in the Voluntary, Community & Social Enterprise (VSCE) sector to apply to receive digital devices. These devices will then be distributed by the organisations to digitally excluded residents across the city.
The programme is part of the Council’s #CovConnects initiative which looks to reduce the inequalities in our communities by promoting and supporting digital inclusion.
A wide range of devices are available as part of the programme including laptops and smartphones. The devices are mostly recycled, refurbished ex-council stock.
In addition to providing the devices, the #CovConnects team will provide organisations and their service users with further support including sessions aimed at improving their digital skills.
Cllr Richard Brown, Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance and Resources, said: “Our #CovConnects programme is all about breaking down the barriers to digital inclusion across the city. One of the biggest hurdles is infrastructure and I’m pleased that we are tackling that head on with this #CovConnects Device Bank.
“Having your own device, which you can use every day, is something that has the potential to completely transform the way you interact with the digital world. That’s why it’s fantastic that we’re going to be able to use this programme to get devices into the hands of those who need them most.”
Cllr David Welsh, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to launch this device bank because it’s going to make a massive difference to community organisations across our city.
“Many of them are already hard at work tackling digital exclusion in our communities and by providing these devices we’re able to help them build on those efforts.
“Our aim is to ensure that everyone in Coventry, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to grow, learn and succeed in life. Ensuring that people can access the digital world is an essential part of that achieving that aim.”
Councillor Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, added: “Having a digital device has become essential in the modern age, and I’m really pleased that we’re able to use this scheme to support residents who might otherwise struggle with that access.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to our IT team and their colleagues who have worked tirelessly to ensure that the equipment provided is the best available for our residents.”
To find out more about the programme, including how to apply to the devices, please visit the #CovConnects Device Bank Webpage.
This programme showcases the Council’s continued commitment to reducing inequalities and tackling climate change. For more on this work and digital recycling, please read the draft Climate Change strategy.
To keep up-to-date with all the latest news about the #CovConnects, sign up for the newsletter, head to visit our #CovConnects webpages or follow the team on Facebook and Twitter.