Community Computers shares impact of Stockport IT recycling scheme

Stockport’s DigiKnow alliance has revealed the environmental and social impact of its Community Computers IT recycling programme.

The initiative is run by Stockport charity Renewal North West, which became part of the DigiKnow network to help address digital exclusion in the borough.

Over the last 12 months, 2,025 devices have been donated to Community Computers. The scheme has seen 7,895 kg of electrical waste be recycled and avoid landfill.

The recycling scheme sees donated IT equipment repaired and refurbished so that it can be made available to low-income households in Stockport that may otherwise miss out of the opportunities offered by the digital world, such as employment and education possibilities. Parts are also used to maintain the DigiKnow digital device lending library.

The social impact on Stockport residents who have benefited from the scheme has also been published in a report on the project’s first 12 months. Feedback from those who have accessed refurbished devices has shown how it has helped them apply for jobs more effectively, pursue online courses to enhance their skills and aid the next generation to access online educational resources.

Cllr David Sedgwick, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focus and Engagement, said:

“We put people at the heart of everything we do, and we want everyone to benefit from digital and make the most of all the information and services available online. These stories show why having access to the internet is so important. This is a fantastic scheme that breathes new life into old devices and makes a massive difference to people struggling to get online. I can’t thank you enough for all the donations we’ve already received. Please do continue to drop off computers you don’t use at your local library.”

Wesley Downs, Executive Officer of Renewal North West, said:

“Community Computers is a recycling scheme with a social conscience, and we’re passionate about tackling digital exclusion and long-term unemployment, as well as reducing e-waste. Your IT donations will help us support long-term unemployed individuals with work skills and training and provide fully licensed, affordable devices back into the community at a low cost. By donating your old devices, you’ll also play your part in helping the environment. No other scheme puts your unwanted tech to so many good uses.”

If you have a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone you don’t use, all Stockport libraries accept devices for the scheme. Data security is a high priority, and the scheme ensures that devices are securely cleaned of all your data before refurbishing.