Outcomes for our city: #CovConnects Device Bank
Case study
Carers Trust Heart of England
Carers Trust Heart of England are a charity that supports and improves the lives of all age carers across Coventry and Warwickshire. Via the #CovConnects Device Bank and wrap-around partner support, Carers Trust have provided carers with ongoing devices including laptops and smartphones, connectivity and digital skills training, empowering carers to feel confident whilst navigating the digital world. They have said the key meaningful uses for them have included people accessing an online community for support, engaging with health and wellbeing support and for the Young Carers to complete homework.
Collaborating with Carers Trust has meant that both Young and Adult Carers have been able to get connected and grow their digital confidence. Adult Carers are now able to apply for jobs and connect socially. Young Carers can complete their homework without worrying about data limits, helping to reduce school sanctions and improve academic performance. After receiving a laptop, Kevin* is now able to learn the skills that he felt were never going to be possible, it has given him the opportunity to learn how to access the internet and keep in touch with family and friends that don’t live locally.
"Providing devices and connectivity has been a game-changer. It’s not just about technology; it’s about giving carers the tools to thrive." – Jodie, Carers Trust
Shaw Trust
Shaw Trust is a leading employment charity. Each year they support hundreds of thousands of people to achieve their full potential. Shaw Trust’s Device Bank journey with #CovConnects has meant supporting young NEET Coventry residents to access digital devices and learn new digital skills, empowering them to use the devices for personal growth.
Applying for college courses, conducting job searches and completing functional skills training have been some of the key meaningful uses for these devices. With their new refurbished devices, young residents in Coventry have been able to engage in many different activities that have developed their confidence in navigating the digital world.
From completing short courses such as first aid training and online safety, to connecting with others via social media, the devices have gone a long way in helping the young residents to take the vital next steps in their lives. A young resident who received a laptop completed their functional maths qualification and has gone on to start an apprenticeship.
“One young person said to me, ‘I feel normal now.’ That was really humbling.” – Shaw Trust team member